Mel joined Durham University in 2017, starting in HR before moving into Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in 2018. She previously served as EDI Lead for Race and Religion/Belief, where she led the University’s Race Equality Charter (REC) work, contributed to the OfS-funded Hate Crime Project, and managed the development of the Report + Support tool. Mel also collaborated widely with staff and student groups to advance inclusive practice across the institution.

In her current role as EDI Assistant Business Partner (Faculties), Mel works with colleagues across faculties and academic departments to progress their EDI goals and embed the Inclusive Durham Framework. She continues to play a key role in the University’s REC efforts and remains actively involved in initiatives that promote racial equity and religion/belief inclusion.

Mel holds MSc degrees in Human Resource Management and Business Psychology, a BA in Legal Management, and a CertHE in Psychology and Theology. Her postgraduate research has focused on migrant workers’ experiences and cross‑cultural management.