Melanie has spent nearly 30 years supporting rural businesses and communities in a variety of roles. Since 2021, she has been part of the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE), based at Newcastle University, where she is Director of Business and Innovation.

Her work focuses on developing and delivering practical innovation projects across a wide range of sectors, while also building the evidence needed to shape rural policy at regional and national level. She leads NICRE’s work with the North East Combined Authority, providing the Intelligent Secretariat for its Coast and Rural Taskforce.

Before joining NICRE, Melanie ran her own consultancy supporting rural businesses and developing rural enterprise hubs. Her previous experience also includes roles as a business adviser, rural export adviser, and work in farm advice and river habitat management. She later became Chief Executive of Northern Rivers, the rivers trust for Northumberland.

Across her career, Melanie has combined practical business support with a strong commitment to helping rural economies and communities thrive.