Business Beats Cancer Bristol

Kate Banks is currently the Chief People Officer at DAS UK based in Bristol. Since joining in 2015 she has been at the heart of their cultural change and in creating an inclusive working environment. Prior to joining, she worked for over 25 years in HR including 13 years at a Director level at companies including Tesco, AXA and ING Direct.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-h-banks/

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, Kate is now in remission having benefitted from early detection and modern advancements in treatment. She now describes herself as a “cancer warrior” and is a passionate supporter of CRUK in its vision to “bring about a world where everybody can lead longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer”. She joined BBCB Board in 2023 to help raise funds for cancer research in Bristol and the Southwest. She is also a mentor in CRUK’s “Women of Influence” Programme, an initiative to support female cancer scientists early on in their careers and help enable their progression to senior research roles.

Originally trained as a graphic designer and in 1979 founded Proctor + Stevenson, then Intimis and became Director of Ian Proctor Designs. His passion is design and his belief that British design is, and should be, world leading. Roger is an advocate of design as a catalyst for positive change economically, culturally and socially. P+S operates across Europe, North America, the Middle and Far East, exporting 75% with 65 staff. Roger is married to Gina with four grown up children and lives near Wells. Former board member of South West Design Programme and worked with the European Commission to case study best practice in collaboration between the design industry, education and government. Became Chair Design South West and former Chairman and joint founder, West of England Design Forum. Designer’s Representative on the International Topper Class Association, promoting youth sail training globally. Honorary Degree from the University of the West of England for the promotion of closer links between the design industry and education.

Board member since 2020

Executive Search Consultant at Moon Consulting Executive

“My motivation is to help raise money towards the research that Cancer Research UK do to help more and more people survive cancer. After losing five members of my close family to this dreadful disease I hope in time this can be achieved with my help and contribution.”

Board member since 2018

"I’ve been working in the Bristol community for the last 6 years as a Relationship Manager within Business Banking. Most recently in the capacity of a specialist in healthcare at Lloyds Banking Group. I’m passionate about raising money for Cancer Research, as cancer is something that touches everyone, whether it be friends or family, or personal experience. Being on the board is really important to me, and as Bristol has a vibrant business community; I’m excited to see the difference we can make to local Cancer research."

Alex is a partner based in the Bristol office of the Bishop Fleming accountancy practice. He advises an extensive portfolio of privately-owned businesses guiding them through the opportunities and pitfalls that can affect their business and private lives. A key part of Alex’s role is the investment he makes in his client relationships. “Without understanding your clients’ needs and wishes it is difficult to provide relevant, practical and timely advice – often decisions are made around personal welfare, not just money and tax!” Alex is proud to forge these long term relationships, especially with families where there is a requirement for consistent advice across generations.

“On a personal level I have seen the dramatic effect cancer has on families and friends. My particular interest in cancer research began with the oncology studies I undertook as part of my degree course, which coincided with my grandmother being treated for cancer at the local hospital. Suddenly I was seeing real life examples of how development of cancer treatment was having a direct effect on a close relative’s life. I have seen many people close to me succumb to cancer and some, thankfully, have survived. I feel that it is time I used my experience and contacts to help CRUK in any way I can.”

Katherine is the Commercial Partnerships Director at The HR World. Her working background is in the legal and HR sector being responsible for Business Development, Sales and Marketing for the organisations she has worked in. Having moved back to Bristol from London just over three years ago she has enjoyed making new networks in the welcoming Bristol business community. Having lost a close family member in the last year to cancer, and having another adversely affected by it, Katherine is determined to help CRUK raise funds to continue life saving research.