Staff Bios

Mark is a seasoned fundraising and events specialist with over 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector.

In this role, Mark utilises his extensive background in community engagement and fundraising to support Level Water’s mission of providing swimming lessons to children with disabilities.

Before joining Level Water, Mark briefly worked at Mencap in London as an Engagement & Fundraising Specialist from February 2019 to May 2019. At Mencap, he focused on developing strategies to increase community involvement and fundraising efforts for the organisation.

Mark’s notable tenure includes his time at the Movember Foundation, where he held multiple roles from March 2016 to April 2018. As the Senior Community & Engagement Manager, he played a critical role in developing and implementing Movember’s European community fundraising strategy. He also led the MOVE program, aimed at engaging new supporters and reconnecting with past participants.

Prior to Movember, Mark spent nearly four years at Diabetes UK. He started as an Events Manager in November 2010, promoting and marketing the organization’s challenge events, including the London Triathlon and overseas events. His expertise led to his promotion as the Senior Fundraising Events Manager, where he led the sporting events program, implemented innovative marketing plans, and inspired a culture of creativity and excellence within his team.

His earlier career includes a role as Project Manager for the Bupa Great Run Series at Diabetes UK, where he managed the marketing and promotion of nine events across the UK, aiming to attract 10,000 runners annually. Additionally, Mark has experience working with East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) as a Community Fundraiser and at Macmillan Cancer Support in Suffolk.

Mark began his career at Cardiac Risk in the Young as a Publications Coordinator and Event Support a cause very close to him, where he gained valuable experience in event coordination and support.

Mark’s career is marked by his commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, driving community engagement, and leading successful fundraising campaigns. His expertise in strategy development, marketing, and team leadership has made significant contributions to each organisation he has worked with, helping them achieve their goals and expand their impact.

As Level Water’s Community Manager, Colette McCarthy leverages over nine years of experience to drive impactful fundraising initiatives. Specialising in creating and executing innovative strategies, she has successfully grown event participation from 100 to nearly 2,000 swimmers, raising £300-400,000 annually. Colette excels in building meaningful relationships with supporters, donors, and swimmers, ensuring goals are met with integrity and authenticity.

In addition to her role at Level Water, Colette is a dedicated Life Coach, empowering others through self-discovery and personal growth. Her professional background includes significant roles at Rugby Travel & Hospitality Ltd and The Lord's Taverners, where she honed her skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning. Colette holds a BA Hons in History from Brunel University and is passionate about continuous improvement, both professionally and personally.

Outside of work, she enjoys running, swimming in open water, and has recently taken up sewing. A former rugby player, Colette brings the same dedication and teamwork to her professional and personal pursuits.

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Geri is a key member of our team at Level Water. With a rich background in fundraising, events, and therapy assistance, she brings a diverse skill set to her role.

Geri excels in developing and executing marketing campaigns, managing donor relations, and assisting in the coordinating of our events. Her proactive engagement and dedication to continuous learning ensure our mission is communicated effectively and our supporters are engaged.

Geri holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Sussex and has international teaching experience in Japan and Vietnam.

Geri’s commitment to our values of respect, compassion, and excellence makes her an invaluable asset to Level Water.