
Meet our team
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Mike Ellicock, Chief Executive
I’m focused on supporting people who struggle with numbers and data. After a military career, an MBA and a short time in banking, I became the founding Chief Executive of the charity National Numeracy in 2012. That’s where the seeds of Plain Numbers were sown. Now, I’m drawing on everything I’ve learned to help organisations tackle this hidden vulnerability so more people can make informed decisions in everyday life.
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Ben Perkins, Director of Partnerships & Services
I lead our work with partners, making sure they get the tools, training and support they need to turn tricky numbers into clear communication. Before joining Plain Numbers, I spent five years at National Numeracy, helping people build confidence with numbers. I’ve seen firsthand how low numeracy can affect everyday life, and I’m passionate about making numbers work for people, not against them. Outside of work, I’ve also been involved in projects focused on suicide prevention.
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Diane Hume, Director of Finance & Operations
I make sure our team has the tools, systems and support they need to deliver great work for our partners. I’m a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and have worked across sectors - from small businesses to education and charities. I'm passionate about fostering a supportive, sustainable environment where everyone can do their best work.
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Mark Brown, Head of Business Development & Growth
I lead our business development - spreading the word about Plain Numbers and working with new partners to understand their challenges. My role is all about showing how clearer communication can help organisations improve customer understanding and build stronger relationships. I’ve worked in sales, marketing and business development across a range of B2B sectors, from professional services to employee benefits, so I know the value of clear, confident messaging. At Plain Numbers, it’s great to combine that experience with a mission that genuinely makes a difference for customers
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James Turner, Client Support Manager
I support our partners to get the most out of working with Plain Numbers. Before this, I worked in local government and as PT Instructor in the military. I’m passionate about helping people who struggle with everyday maths. Outside work, I’m usually running in the South Downs - anything from a quick 5k to 100k ultramarathons. I represented Great Britain at the World 100k Championships.
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Jacob Sharwood
I support the day-to-day operations at Plain Numbers, with a focus on compliance and internal policies. Before this, I worked across operations, governance and HR at an international charity, and previously supported older people facing loneliness during the pandemic. I originally studied journalism, which sparked my passion for clear, unbiased communication - something that really connects with what we do at Plain Numbers.
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Frances Pace, Training and Partnerships Manager
I develop our suite of training activities and work closely with partners to help them put the Plain Numbers Method into practice. I’ve spent my career designing training programmes across sectors, with experience in communications, relationship management and project delivery. Having worked in the advocacy sector, I know just how closely understanding links to equality. I also teach Argentine tango and Cuban salsa professionally and have a passion for theatre improvisation.
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Will Francis, Partnerships Manager
I’ve worked in partnership roles for over seven years, including five in Higher Education recruitment, managing teams and working with organisations across the UK and beyond. Like many people, I used to struggle with numbers - so I’m passionate about the difference Plain Numbers is making and proud to be part of that impact. My other big passion is playing sports, so outside of work I can generally be found on a hockey pitch or a padel court.
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Jo Hustoft, Partnerships Manager & Certification Lead
I love working for an organisation that makes a real, positive impact. Before joining Plain Numbers, I spent ten years working for a charity and their social impact company whose focus was on helping consumers make informed choices. I’ve also supported students with literacy and numeracy, which really showed me how beneficial clear communication can be. Now, I get to build strong relationships with our partners and help them do exactly that.
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Doug Little-Bennett, Partnerships Manager
I support our Plain Numbers Partners to improve how they communicate with their customers. I stay in regular contact with our partners, making sure they feel supported, valued, and confident using the Method. Before joining Plain Numbers, I worked across sectors like marketing, med tech, and advertising - always focused on helping clients get the most from the tools they use. Now, I get to do that in a way that really makes a difference.
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Holly Godsland, Marketing & Communications Lead
I look after our comms and marketing -spreading the word about Plain Numbers and helping more organisations understand what we do. That includes everything from managing our LinkedIn and writing our newsletter, to organising webinars and creating content that brings our work to life. I joined after a career in TV production, and I still love finding the most engaging way to tell a story, especially when it helps more people communicate numbers clearly.

Numbers shape what people understand, how they make decisions, and who they trust.
Get them right, and you can unlock a whole new level of clarity, confidence, and connection with your customers. We can show you how.