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 helps encourage the generation of new business opportunities, assisting the network to increase commerce for firms and their clients.

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

Chris joined us at the start of 2025, having previously run a similar network for a couple of years. Prior to that he enjoyed over 30 years as a soldier and a diplomat in a variety of countries around the world.

He brings with him a wealth of experience in international relations and diplomacy, believing passionately that what we do is all about people; after all, people do business with people, people they know and trust, and this is at the heart of our network.  Among other tasks, he will continue the essential work of network development and will also support the marketing and communication effort to help maximise the value of membership to our firms.

Chris has an MA in Defence Technology, CEFR C2 in French, and attended the Manchester Business School resulting in a CMI Level 8 in Strategic Direction and Leadership.

Kathryn is responsible for encouraging and facilitating member engagement across the network, including event management for all Russell Bedford conferences.

She has almost 15 years’ experience working in the accountancy profession. With a passion for languages, strong understanding of the internal systems within practices, and direct experience of the challenges faced in the profession, Kathryn is ideally positioned to connect and support our firms within a wider business context. As the network continues to advance and expand, she looks forward to helping shape the network’s future direction, maximising membership value.

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.