Our staff
We have four employees who are responsible for the day-to-day running of BISA. Our Director/CEO has oversight for the strategic direction of the Association and is responsible for the implementation of the operational plan. Our Administrator and our Communications Manager help to ensure you’re making the most of your membership, and that you’re kept up to date with our latest news and events. Our Administration and Events Assistant coordinates and administers working group events, as well as the conference. She also assists the other staff with a wide range of activities.
Juliet has worked in the field of international relations for the last 25 years specialising in programme management, international development/humanitarian affairs and donor relations.
Juliet has previously worked at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), the London School of Economics (LSE Ideas) and for 15 years with the United Nations in Cairo, Gaza and Jerusalem (UNRWA, UNOCHA, UNOHCHR). Her most recent position prior to joining BISA was at the West Asia - North Africa (WANA) Institute in Amman where she was the Director of Programmes. Juliet holds an MA in International Relations from the University of East Anglia.
Juliet was also elected as a member of the Chatham House Council in July 2021.
Outside of BISA, Juliet loves reading political biographies, outdoor swimming, spending time with her family and living a quiet life after years of living dangerously!
Chrissie has worked in marketing communications for almost 15 years, with experience of both the public and private sectors. Her most recent positions prior to joining BISA were at the University of Warwick and spanned marketing, communications, recruitment, student experience and project management.
Chrissie has also run her own business and was formerly the Chair of her local branch of the Federation of Small Businesses, as well as Chair of Coventry and Warwickshire First Young Professionals.
Outside of BISA, Chrissie is a singer/songwriter, reviews gigs for Birmingham Live and enjoys travelling.
Freya joined BISA as Administrator in January 2021 on a part-time basis alongside her other roles as a School Bursar and a Ticketing Administrator for the Friends of Oxford Botanic Garden. Previously she worked as an Account Director for an Event Management agency for nine years, organising a variety of events across the globe.
Outside of BISA, Freya enjoys Pilates and reading (when time allows!), and has recently taken up playing the piano again after a 25 year hiatus.
Ella joined BISA in September 2024 as a recent politics and international relations graduate. Throughout her studies she gained varied experience in fundraising and event planning for charities and football clubs.
Outside of BISA, Ella enjoys unwinding with a good book, exploring new coffee spots, and spending time outdoors with her dog.