Our team
Our mission is powered by a highly committed team of 36 colleagues and 90 dedicated volunteers. This strong collaboration plays a vital role in helping us achieve our organisational goals.
We maintain a healthy balance of newer team members alongside a significant number of long-serving colleagues, many with over a decade of experience. Our longest-serving colleague celebrated their 20th anniversary this year and they continue to contribute a deep level of expertise.
In terms of diversity, the team comprises 20 female and 16 male colleagues. We are also geographically diverse, with colleagues based in the UK (23), Ghana (4), Peru (4), Kenya (3) and Costa Rica (2). Our team’s language skills are a key asset, enabling us to communicate effectively with stakeholders worldwide. In addition to English, our colleagues consistently employ languages such as French, Spanish and Portuguese, among a total of 14 languages spoken (including Afrikaans, Ewe, Fante, German, Guan, Kiswahili, Nzema, Taita, Turkish and Twi).
Over the past year, we said farewell to eight colleagues, two from retirement and welcomed seven new colleagues to the team, strategically strengthening key areas of our operation. New appointments included an Executive Assistant, Head of Human Resources, Head of Member Engagement and Customer Manager for Europe in addition to a maternity cover role. Notably, one of these additions marked the return of a former colleague to the Lending team, further strengthening our team with familiar experience.
A key development was Kerrey Baker’s appointment as Managing Director. This move followed the retirement of our long-serving Managing Director, Patricia Alexander after 19 years of dedicated service. Kerrey’s appointment provides renewed energy, while ensuring continuity and the preservation of valuable knowledge.
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Case Study: Lending Manager for Central and North America
Originally from Ecuador, Maria Hall rejoined Shared Interest in 2025 as Customer Manager for Europe and Asia, having previously worked with the organisation for six years up to 2017. In her earlier role as Account Manager for Latin America, Maria helped strengthen lending processes before the overseas team was established.
Now based in Newcastle, Maria manages a portfolio of customers, oversees payments and manages colleagues within her team.
Reflecting on what inspired her to return, Maria said:
"What really drew me back was the purpose. Shared Interest has always stood for something I believe in - using finance to make a difference rather than a profit. The role itself felt like a natural step forward, combining the chance to manage a small team with responsibility for the European portfolio, all within an organisation I know and admire."
Maria referenced the evolution of Shared Interest:
"Some things have naturally evolved. Lending is now more structured, with safeguards in place to protect members’ funds, which I see as a positive step towards long-term sustainability. It was also wonderful to meet the overseas teams during my first week back and see how much they have grown since I left. The structure may have changed, but the ethos and purpose remain the same. What stands out most is the level of trust. There is a greater sense of responsibility and accountability, and that creates a much stronger, more positive environment."
Image: Maria Hall, Customer Manager of Europe and Asia
Case Study: Finance Director and Company Secretary
Jo joined in 2024, bringing over 30 years of finance experience across the UK. One year on, she reflects on what she has enjoyed most and what she looks forward to in the year ahead.
"The team always find solutions together, and we are free to make changes that better serve our members, customers, colleagues and stakeholders. I love the pace, the variety, and the feeling that we are making a real difference - something that has not always been so tangible in previous finance roles."
Jo added that her early impressions were shaped by the strength of its systems and governance.
"I have been so impressed by the comprehensive governance and processes across all areas of the business. It has given me real reassurance and confidence in my role."
Jo continues to find motivation in those around her.
"My colleagues inspire me every day. Their passion for doing the right thing and supporting others to make the world a better place completely aligns with my values. Working alongside Kerrey, who is such a positive and knowledgeable leader, makes me proud to be part of this organisation."
Looking ahead, Jo is excited about future direction.
"With the strategic review now underway, I am excited that we will listen to all our stakeholders and shape the future of Shared Interest together. It feels like the perfect time, as I am confident in my role and looking forward to contributing to our next chapter."
Image: Jo Powell, Finance Director and Company Secretary. Above: (clockwise) Shared Interest colleagues Divine, Kodzo, colleagues Immaculate and Josephine; colleagues Karolina and Elizabeth; former Managing Director, Patricia, with the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Mrs Winskell, OBE, Yvonne, Shared Interest Chair and Kerrey, Managing Director; the King’s Award. Images taken at Jesmond Dene House for the King’s Award ceremony.
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