As Chief Executive, Stephen assumes responsibility for developing Russell Bedford on a global scale, including maximising membership benefits, focusing on strengthening the network, at the same time as maintaining its high reputation of quality.

Stephen provides strategic direction to the International Board, applying leadership and communicating with various cultures; engaging with existing member firms across several countries. In facilitating cross-border cooperation, as well as ensuring Russell Bedford continues to expand by acquiring additional quality firms throughout the world, Stephen assists the network in increasing commerce for members and their clients.

To view Stephen's full profile, please visit the CEO page.

Kempton is a marketing specialist with more than 30 years’ experience in the development and management of professional services organisations. He was responsible for business development and corporate communications in a global multi-discipline management and engineering consulting group before joining Russell Bedford International in 2000 as Marketing Director.

Having successfully developed and implemented the network’s branding and growth strategy, he has been instrumental in the transformation of Russell Bedford into a top-20 global player. Now, as Network Development Director, his focus is on further international network expansion and on events management.

Kempton is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. He has an MA in Marketing, a Diploma in Marketing and a Diploma of the Communications Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Education Foundation.

Kathryn joined Russell Bedford in October 2022 with 11 years’ experience working in the accountancy sector, most recently in the position of Head of Marketing and Communications.

She has excellent skills in communication and relationship-building, along with a passion for languages and appreciation of other cultures, making her well placed to connect and assist members wherever possible. This, combined with a good understanding of the internal systems and working processes within accountancy, makes her ideally positioned to enhance all facets of operations. She will also focus on event management and ensuring that our members receive the most value from Russell Bedford conferences around the world. 

Kathryn has a first-class honours degree in modern languages with interpreting (French, Spanish), achieving a distinction in spoken French. She also has a professional qualification with the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Samantha joined Russell Bedford in February 2024 and brings over 15 years’ experience in marketing and communications. Creating and managing innovative approaches to marketing communications is what inspires Samantha in helping businesses to evolve and grow.

Contributions from previous marketing roles across global organisations involved researching and understanding key target audiences, and developing effective marketing communications and programmes that will attract, engage, and retain them.

Samantha has experience in managing creative processes and campaigns from end-to-end, as well as optimising marketing projects, and working collaboratively with teams both locally and internationally. She holds a Business Management degree from Kings’ College London and professional qualifications from the Market Research Society and Institute of Data and Marketing.

Hira joined Russell Bedford in May 2024 with a degree in Business and Marketing and over a year’s experience working as a Business and Marketing Assistant for a Legal Consultancy.

She has experience with social media marketing, design and content creation, conducting market research, and the planning and implementation of marketing campaigns and strategies. She is an organised individual with a great work ethic and an eagerness to grow and progress in her career. Her willingness to learn and try new things, as well as her creative and collaborative persona, is an asset to the Marketing team here at Russell Bedford who value a growth mindset and a fresh perspective.

Romina graduated with a degree in Spanish - English Translation from the Buenos Aires University in Argentina. She joined Russell Bedford as a Coordinator for Latin America in September 2021 to manage and enhance communications with the network's Spanish speaking member firms. She is excited about interacting with members throughout the region and being connected to the Global Central Office.

She has many years of experience working in a global firm and developing her career in international business. Romina is very enthusiastic about taking on new challenges, progressing her personal and professional skills, and contributing to the development of Russell Bedford’s international network.

Gemma is the administrator for Russell Bedford. She has worked as a Personal Assistant/Administrator for over 20 years in the professional services and finance sectors. She is a valuable support to the central office and the network worldwide.

Gemma lives in Hertfordshire with her husband and two children. She is an avid reader and also enjoys home renovation, cooking and entertaining and going for long country walks with her dogs.