In 2023 SALC looked at ways they could re-shape the team with a view to:

• building more resilience as a result of absence or loss of staff in key areas

• increasing capacity to support sector changes offering the opportunity to grow services and

• align roles so that the right people at the right level were undertaking tasks following changes made post-COVID.

In November 2023 we made a number of changes with Laura Sampson taking on the role of Operations and Facilities Manager, Sandra Brown stepping up as our Finance Manager and two new appointments – Kirsty White as our Finance and Admin Assistant and Charlotte Haines as our dedicated Payroll Officer.  

We have now added two new people to the team with the appointment of Sophie Brouillet to a new role of Development Support Officer, who started on 1^st October and Claire Pizzey, our new Advice and Development Manager, who started on 1^st November. 

This now complete the re-structure exercise. By way of introduction to these two new members of the team:

Sophie Brouillet – Development Support Officer

With over 25 years in the manufacturing industry, I developed a strong expertise in customer service, focussing on customer satisfaction and fostering lasting relationships.

In my new role at SALC, I look forward to proactively supporting the local government community, particularly with handling enquiries and facilitating training activities.  I have a keen interest in learning and development and have so far really enjoyed building my knowledge with the help of the team.

Originally from France, I moved to Suffolk in 1998 to help establish a new business.  I fell in love with the county and have called it my home ever since  In my spare time, I enjoy long walks with my dogs, eating and cooking and generally keeping fit.

I look forward to continuously building my knowledge and support to you all with the rest of the team. 

Claire Pizzey –Advice and Development Manager 

Some of you may know me as the former Clerk to Stowupland and Haughley Parish Councils.  During my time in that role, I gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, which I’m eager to build on in my new position with SALC. Having worked within the Local Government sector for the past ten years, I’m excited for the opportunity to continue my professional growth.  I have been fortunate enough to immerse myself in community projects relating to the development and preservation of my local area.   

Prior to my career in local government, I worked as an Account Manager (part-qualified accountant) for a local Suffolk company, where I could be found with a calculator and spreadsheet in hand.     

Suffolk born and bred, while I haven’t ventured too far in my professional life, I do enjoy travelling when I get the chance.  I am at my happiest spending time with my family, walking the dog, or donning my apron to bake a cake.

I still have lots to learn, but I already feel like part of the family here at SALC, and I’m excited to navigate the challenges ahead.