Gerald McHugh is a Chartered Engineer and MBA graduate with deep cross-functional experience gained in senior roles at a FTSE 100 defence company. A specialist generalist, Gerald excels at drawing insight from complexity, connecting diverse perspectives, and bringing teams around shared goals. He has lectured in Systems Engineering at Cranfield University and is a strong advocate for leadership development, coaching aspiring leaders and shaping inclusive team cultures. As a Director at Learning Academy Trust, he brings analytical rigour, strong governance experience, and a deep commitment to developing people and potential.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Gerald has lived in Plymouth for five years, where he enjoys the outdoors with his wife and two children.