Branch Secretaries

Linda Hartard

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Introduction

Linda works for Chelmsford City Council

Simone Gallant

Bereavement Services Manager

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Introduction

I started in the Customer Services Team in 2008, when under Waveney District Council, which became Waveney Norse until 2023 & now under the wing of East Suffolk Council, we are East Suffolk Services. Whilst in Customer Services, I was assigned to be another admin person for the then named Cemeteries & Burials Team in 2011. I took over the management of that team in 2016, in 2023 we changed our name to what we thought was all-round more suitable, we feel we offer much more than burying the deceased & looking after the Cemeteries ! So, Bereavement Services we became.

Ben Goodes

Operations Manager

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Introduction

I have been at Nene Valley Crematorium since 2023, having previously worked on the audio-visual side of funerals for 8 years. As operations manager my focus is on ensuring respectful, seamless services for families while maintaining high standards of efficiency and professionalism across the site. After visiting my first branch meeting at the Gordon Institute in 2024, I wanted to be part of the bringing together of like minded people to share ideas.

Rebecca Patton

Bereavement Services Manager

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Introduction

At 18 I started work for a Stonemasons & worked there until moving to Warrington Borough Council in 2002. My first permanent role as Memorials Officer (the first in the UK) commenced in January 2006. As Branch Secretary I plan to keep up the momentum: following Dave my predecessor, who has done an amazing job. I’d like to keep the connection and contact in the Northwest region. I feel is very important to continue to communicate, work together and help each other.

Victoria Currie

Cemetery & Crematorium Manager

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Introduction

I started working for Conwy County Borough Council in 1999 in the Highways Department. I looked after footpaths and bridleways in the county. Everyone says what a wonderful job getting paid to walk the hills of North Wales. In reality it is lot of arguements with landowners and ramblers in muddy fields! After a reorganisation I took on responsibility for cleansing and the highway maintenance. The dread of gritting season became too much and when the manager vacancy came up at the crematorium in 2021 I jumped at the chance.

Heather White

Service Manager/Registrar

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Introduction

I am the Service Manager/Registrar for Bereavement Services at Southampton City Council, with over 25 years’ experience in the bereavement sector. I am passionate about delivering compassionate, high-quality services for bereaved families, while continually improving standards across cemeteries and crematorium operations. I served as ICCM President for five years, including what I often refer to as my “Covid Presidency”, supporting the profession through an incredibly challenging time and working closely with colleagues across the sector. As South East Branch Secretary, I enjoy bringing people together, sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues across the region.

Carmel Thomas

Policy and Performance Officer

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Introduction

I have been actively involved in Bereavement Services since 1993, beginning my career as a Memorial Officer then transitioned into a trainee role. Following completion of my Diploma I progressed to a position where I now lead the Bereavement Services Strategy. I have served as Secretary and Chair of the Continuous Improvement Forum in Wales for several years. Stepping into the role of ICCM Branch Secretary was a natural progression.

Michael Headington

Green Spaces Manager

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Introduction

I have been involved in management of local authority cemeteries since 1994, I was appointed to the post of Bereavement Officer in 2001, taking on direct responsibility for the management of the council's municipal cemeteries. Becoming an ICCM Branch Secretary is a valuable opportunity to promote and elevate our profession.

Tracy Lawrence

General Manager and Registrar

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Introduction

I’ve over 20 years’ experience in the sector having joined the Cemeteries and Crematoria profession from a Police crime and coroner’s background. I started in the public sector at Cambridge, moving to a hybrid crematorium (only) operation in Northamptonshire during May 2016. I am currently working at a private sector crematorium in the Tamar Valley. We are in our infancy regards resurrecting a dormant branch! I plan to reach out to establish what members would like to see happen during the period of change we’re experiencing with the ICCM so we can move forward together.

Thomas McQuilkin

Assistant Group Manager Bereavement Services

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John and Tam have over 30 years experience of working in, and managing cemeteries and crematoria in Glasgow. They are keen to share their knowledge and experience with Scottish members and encourage discussion and the sharing of best practice.

John Downes

Bereavement Services Manager

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John and Tam have over 30 years experience of working in, and managing cemeteries and crematoria in Glasgow. They are keen to share their knowledge and experience with Scottish members and encourage discussion and the sharing of best practice.

Could this be you?

Branch Secretary

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Introduction

We are looking for someone to co-ordinate branch meetings for the Yorkshire region. Hit the email button to get in touch and learn more.