Jacqueline Russell joined the Ark family over ten years ago. She initially worked at Future Leaders as COO, now part of the Ambition Institute, prior to becoming CFO of Ark in 2017.

Prior to joining Ark, Jacqueline had experience of a variety of sectors including hospitality, retail and lottery. She was Finance Director of Geronimo Inns, The Conran Shop, and the inaugural Finance Director of the South African National Lottery, a role she held on secondment from the Camelot Group.

Jacqueline is Chair of Governors for Ark Acton Academy. She is also a trustee for CST, the national organisation and sector body for School Trusts in England and a member of their Finance and Resource Committee. 

Jacqueline qualified at Price Waterhouse and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.