Elaine has had a long career in children’s publishing including working as Head of Children’s Marketing and PR at Oxford University Press (OUP). She has worked with authors and illustrators including Roald Dahl, Raymond Briggs, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and is also a Trustee of The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre.

Antonia Byatt is an Arts Consultant specialising in Literature projects and organisations whose current clients include English PEN and British Council. Previously she was Director of Cheltenham Literature Festival 2016 and Director of Literature and South East for Arts Council England between 2007 and 2015.

Ali is Director of Education for Cheltenham Festivals. Previously she worked as a primary teacher, literacy advisor, Deputy Head Teacher and ITE tutor before moving to the National Gallery as Head of Schools. She is a Leading Thinker for the National Education Trust, and Trustee of Farms for City Children.

Caroline is currently an elected Member of the London Assembly focusing on transport, police and education issues. Previously she spent 12 years as a Southwark Councillor including time as Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Children’s Services and Education.

Justin has 20 years experience in investment banking where he is currently Head of Equity Advisory at Barclays. His relationship with CLPE began as part of a project team at Pilotlight, developing CLPE's long term strategic plan and was delighted to evolve it into a Trustee role. He is advisor to a number of charities and worked with the Young Vic Theatre.