High Tide Foundation Launches New Era of Action and Impact

With a bold new vision and a track record spanning over a decade, the High Tide Foundation is accelerating its commitment to young people across the Tees Valley.

As the social and economic challenges facing young people grow more complex, the Foundation is stepping up – with renewed leadership, expanded partnerships, and a clear plan to turn talk into action.

“The time is now – and the need has never been greater,” said High Tide Foundation Chairman, Mark Easby, reflecting on the Foundation’s mission.

“We have achieved so much over the last 12 years, connecting more than 33,500 young people with industry, but there is more to do. Despite the Tees Valley’s rich industrial heritage, bright future and vibrant business community, many young people remain unaware of the diverse career opportunities and choices available on their doorstep.”

Founded in 2012, High Tide is one of the oldest and most established charitable foundations in the region, dedicated to improving the career and life chances of the region’s young people. It has spent over 12 years building connections between young people and industry, bridging opportunity gaps, and shaping futures in the Tees Valley and beyond. Now, it’s setting the stage for a step change with the addition of new leadership to its Board of Trustees, and with that, a new momentum.

New Board Appointments:

Claire Preston has been appointed Interim Director. Claire brings a wealth of knowledge and experience spanning over 30 years in executive and operational management roles. Claire also contributes to a range of organisations, is particularly committed to promoting social mobility, equality, and aspiration, holding roles as Chair of the Halo Project, Director of NYBEP, and was previously Head of Operations at Power of Women, bringing skills from the business, education, and charitable sectors.

Michael Duffey, Director of Operations at Atomix Educational Trust and an experienced educational leader with a passion for social enterprise and youth development, is joining the Board of Trustees, bringing a bold, strategic approach to scaling impact.

These new positions are in addition to Michelle Robson, PD Ports’ Chief People and Compliance Officer, who joined the Board of Trustees earlier this year, further strengthening High Tide’s leadership with extensive industry and people-focused expertise.

Photo caption (L-R) Paula McMahon (Sir Robert McAlpine), Trustee, Michelle Robson (PD Ports), Trustee, Kirsten Donkin (Double Eleven), Trustee, Michael Duffey, Trustee, Claire Preston, Trustee, Hughston Taylor (High Tide Programme Coordinator), Jerry Hopkinson (Brookfield), High Tide Patron, Mark Easy, (Better), High Tide Chair.

Their leadership signals High Tide’s commitment not only to maintaining its legacy but also to building on it.

Claire said, “This region has so much to offer our young people, but sadly, not many are aware of the opportunities available or how to access them. I’m really excited to be working with High Tide, to further develop their existing great work and to encourage greater engagement and collaboration – that really makes a difference”

Michael adds, ‘It’s with a genuine sense of excitement that I join the High Tide board of Trustees. When the opportunity arose to be part of a team with such a diverse range of skills and experience, I jumped at the chance. The impact this group can have, with its deep-rooted passion for the region and its people, on the life changes of young people is limitless.’

2025 has already seen High Tide bring its values to life through high-impact programmes, including sector weeks, offering insight into a variety of careers and workplace environments with Tees Valley employers.

This is only the beginning. With big plans on the horizon for 2026, the Foundation is positioning itself as the go-to catalyst for social mobility in the region, unlocking potential, changing perceptions and driving positive change for young people across Tees Valley.

For further information or to learn more about High Tide’s programmes and partnerships, please contact: hughston@hightidefoundation.co.uk or visit www.hightidefoundation.co.uk.