Meet the Team - Bucks Mind

Andrea McCubbin, Chief Executive

Andrea McCubbin has been Chief Executive of Buckinghamshire Mind since September 2015. Prior to that Andrea worked as a Research Associate at a university which developed her understanding of the principles of social justice. She then decided to join the voluntary sector to help set up the award-winning social enterprise Blue Sky, which provided employment opportunities for ex-offenders.

As a carer for a family member who experiences severe mental illness, Andrea is driven to develop integrated mental health services that reach out and touch the lives of more people across Buckinghamshire and East Berkshire; fighting stigma and raising awareness every step of the way. She is a nominated governor of Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, chairs the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West (BOB) VCSE Health Alliance mental health sub-group and sits on the BOB Mental Health Partnership Board.

Favourite things: Staying active and spending time outdoors, gardening, exploring new places and relaxing with my family.

Stephen Robinson, Director of Services (Deputy CEO)

Stephen joined Buckinghamshire Mind as Director of Services (Deputy CEO) in May 2022. Stephen has worked for over 25 years in the health and social care field in both the voluntary and private sector, supporting mental health service developments from community based services to psychiatric hospitals. Stephen has a psychology background and trained as a psychodynamic counsellor, which has been a foundation to his drive to support services that reach out to people recovering from mental health challenges.

Favourite things: Archery, playing with my new puppy, reading interesting books, spending time with friends and family and sitting in the sunshine.

Jenny Wells, HR Manager

Jenny joined Buckinghamshire Mind as HR Manager in October 2022.

Jenny has worked in the HR profession for over 20 years, including, most recently, as an HR Manager in the charity sector. During her time as an integrative counsellor, she has worked with both adults and young people.

Jenny has a passion to see an increasing recognition of the importance and benefits of strong mental health. Her focus is to support the team’s wellbeing and the work of Buckinghamshire Mind through building excellence in all things HR.

Favourite things: Relaxing and having fun with those I love, walking in the countryside, detective shows, theatre and baking.

Alice Kirkwood, Finance Manager

Alice has worked in charity finance for nine years and joined Buckinghamshire Mind in August 2023.

Previously having worked for a local Third Sector Interface in Scotland, Alice had experience representing the Third Sector locally as well as supporting the growth and sustainability of local organisations. Alice is passionate about ensuring financial stability for organisations to ensure they can deliver the best services to those in need.

Favourite things: Being out in nature, music, crafting and a good coffee shop.

Julia Hall, Head of Services

Julia has worked in the voluntary sector for 25 years and joined Buckinghamshire Mind in February 2021. Julia started her career with Mencap before moving in to the mental health sector, working with an organisation offering a range of community based services and inpatient mental health advocacy. More recently, Julia has worked in the area of residential support for people with learning disabilities. Julia is very pleased to be with a local Mind that offers such a range of support to the local community.

Favorite things: Pottering in the garden, long dog walks and making products for home and health using natural ingredients and essential oils.

Salome Williams, Head of Quality and Evaluation

Salome joined Buckinghamshire Mind in November 2021 following a career in administration management in the education, arts and charity sectors. Her background is in compliance and systems development with a strong interest in both organisational and people development.

Salome has varied interests outside of Buckinghamshire Mind. She is a qualified yoga teacher and coach with a passion for promoting positive mental health and wellbeing for everyone. She is also a strong advocate of creativity and nature as sources of positive wellbeing. When not at work, Salome can be found making jewellery or in the garden.