Our Trustees
Our Trustees
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Chair Of Trustees - David Walker MA
With over 30 years of senior leadership experience across the military, public sector, and cultural organisations, David brings a strategic mindset, operational discipline, and a deep understanding of team leadership.
A former officer in the Royal Air Force Regiment, David left the RAF and joined the NHS and became the head of emergency planning in the Midlands and East regions where he set strategic directions, and built cultures of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement. During the COVID pandemic, David was the Chief of Staff in the National COVID Response Centre which needed organisational ability and the building and sustaining of relationships with stakeholders, community groups, and strategic partners.
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Treasurer - Omisore Oluwatosin
Tosin serves as the Treasurer at Newmarket Open Door, providing oversight and assurance across the charity’s financial management. She supports the organisation in maintaining strong financial stewardship, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly and in line with regulatory and governance expectations.
A part-qualified ACCA professional, Tosin brings well-developed expertise in financial management, internal controls, and financial reporting. Her contribution strengthens the charity’s financial resilience and supports effective decision-making across its operation.
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Deputy Chair - Martin Wells
Martin serves as Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees, bringing extensive experience in health and safety leadership and strong expertise in governance and regulatory compliance. His background includes senior-level responsibilities within safety management, risk oversight, and organisational assurance.
Martin also offers significant safeguarding insight developed through many years of fostering, providing him with a deep understanding of risk, protection, and the needs of vulnerable young people.
In his role as Deputy Chair, Martin contributes to strategic direction, board effectiveness, and organisational governance. He is committed to ensuring Open Door continues to operate safely, responsibly and in accordance with best-practice standards, delivering high-quality support to those we serve.
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Sarah Akinsanya
Sarah brings over a decade of experience in primary education to her role as a trustee, having worked in two local schools in Newmarket. Her background as a teacher gives her a deep understanding of the challenges children and families face, as well as the importance of creating supportive, nurturing environments, values that align closely with the work of Newmarket Open Door.
With strong communication skills, a natural ability to engage with young people, and a passion for inclusion, Sarah offers thoughtful insight into safeguarding, youth engagement, and the needs of families accessing our services. Her professional experience in education also equips her with valuable skills in organisation, teamwork, and leadership.
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Rev. Robert Otule
Rev. Robert Otule has served as Vicar at All Saints Church in Newmarket since 2022. Originally from Uganda, Robert moved to the UK 35 years ago and brings a wealth of personal and pastoral experience to the Board of Trustees at Open Door, which he joined in 2023.
Having experienced homelessness earlier in his life, Robert has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the young people Open Door supports. He is passionate about the charity’s mission and is committed to helping young people rebuild their lives and realise their potential.
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Steven Maddox
Steven brings substantial operational and frontline experience to the Open Door Board of Trustees. His background includes 12 years in the Royal Artillery, followed by roles as a lorry mechanic and in specialist substance misuse support.
He has a long-standing connection with Open Door, having been part of the original staff team at Portland House and later serving as both Trustee and Operations Manager. During his time in management, he played a key role in expanding the charity and establishing the Open Door charity superstore.
Now retired, Steven has rejoined the Board, where he provides practical insight and hands-on support, drawing on his extensive experience to contribute to the charity’s ongoing development and governance.