Our people

Matt joined the NYA in 2020 and leads the Growth Directorate. This includes the Knowledge Team, encompassing our research, analysis and data functions; and the Business Development team, which works to make the charity sustainable and build partnerships.

He has worked in the voluntary sector for nearly twenty years, and has a strong interest in supporting voluntary sector groups to be sustainable. Matt brings this experience and passion for the voluntary sector to his role in the NYA.

As Head of Business Development, Damian helps to shape the organisations income generation strategy and ensure the growth and sustainability of NYA’s income streams.

Damian has a background in commercial leadership in commercial, public sector and charity organisations. Having worked across apprenticeships, careers and mental health, Damian is passionate about improving outcomes for all young people.

Rachael supports the business development team by building meaningful partnerships that create positive impact and align with the NYA’s mission and vision.

Rachael is a passionate advocate of how youth work can positively influence young people’s lives and future outcomes and she is particularly interested in helping disadvantaged young people access youth work.

Toby supports the NYA by developing relationships and opportunities with those inside and external to  the youth sector to grow the reach of the NYA and the support it provides.

Toby has been a youth worker in a variety of areas, including alternate provision and the NHS. 

Originally introduced to youth work via sports as a young boy before progressing to work in the sector, he’s seen the variety of ways youth work can be delivered and the impact it has on those who access it. Toby believes that making youth work accessible in all environments is key to achieving positive outcomes for young people.

Carl supports the Business Development team by leading on grants and contracts to help grow the reach and sustainability of the NYA.

He works to build partnerships and secure opportunities that enable more young people to access high-quality youth work, with a particular passion for supporting those from underserved communities.

With experience across the youth, education, public, and voluntary sectors, Carl takes a collaborative approach to developing relationships that align with the NYA’s mission and vision. He is committed to ensuring youth participation is recognised and reflected in the opportunities created.