Our Team

Jane Shipley Founder and Director

Jane’s interest in the business world began in France and then she joined hypermarket company Savacentre Ltd before becoming the youngest store manager ever appointed by high street chain Argos. After a nine-year break to have a family, Jane was asked to teach Business Studies, Retail Management, Customer Service, Hospitality and Life Skills at North Hertfordshire College. Simultaneously, she undertook a Certificate of Education with Greenwich University and then joined the charity Young Enterprise – initially as a volunteer and then as a full-time member of staff. Whilst at Young Enterprise, Jane grew her school, public and private income by more than 350%, increased student numbers by 135% and increased volunteer numbers by more than 300%. She was also instrumental in creating and delivering new programmes which were used by her area colleagues.

Jane was conscious that no one way of learning fits all. To address this gap in the market, she set up ELSA and started delivering bespoke programmes and workshops.

As a passionate teaching professional, with creativity and a reputation of 'getting things done’, Jane is continually looking to inspire, enthuse and excite others whilst ensuring that she is equally challenging herself, through her love of learning.

Kieran Griffin

Kieran is from Hertfordshire and Chairman of Essendon Group, an organisation that offers advisory, capital investment and financial management services. He was Director of Addison Lee for 20 years and his recent acquisitions and business interests are held within the Leisure, Retail, Financial and Property sectors. Inspired by ELSA’s efforts and dedication, Kieran has provided financial and structural support to ensure their future development.

Kevin Shipley

Kevin is an expert in retail, having worked for the John Lewis Partnership for 30+years. His understanding of customer service and people development ensures ELSA understands current customer and staff expectations. His knowledge of staff, recruitment, diversity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility and continuing professional development can be shared and implemented by ELSA.

Kesiah Nuttall-Crola

Kesiah spent 20+ years working for large corporate American companies and for AT Kearney management consultancy not only in the USA and the UK but also in The Netherlands ,France and Italy, specialising in marketing and procurement.

She set up her own consultancy business over 10 years ago with a former colleague but moved to New York City in 2018 and became inspired by the non-profit business world.

Kesiah worked with The Dwight Foundation in New York, a non-profit organisation helping underprivileged children to gain access to an enriching and fulfilling education. Whilst living in the USA she also studied for a graduate certificate in Non-Profit Management at the Harvard Extension School.

Kesiah returned to London in the 2021 and is passionate about supporting ELSA develop as a non-profit organisation. Creating new business partners and donors, expanding ELSA’s support for young people and developing fundraising opportunities.