Meet the team - Lisa Barber

Head of Marketing

Lisa joined Thrive with a passion for connecting schools and system leaders with the support and solutions they need to address the challenges they face. Whether it’s tackling pupil attendance, behaviour issues, staff retention, or a young person’s wellbeing, she thrives on helping educators see how Thrive can make a real difference in their setting.

Lisa’s career began with a graduate programme at McCain Foods after earning a German degree from Newcastle University, but she quickly found her calling in marketing – a role she saw as a powerful way to drive social impact through business. She’s spent nearly two decades working in mission-led organisations where profit isn’t the only goal – instead, she focuses on purpose, working to improve the lives and wellbeing of children and young people.

Outside of work, Lisa loves walking her golden retriever on Exmouth beach, cheering on her kids at their football and rugby matches, and volunteering as a chaperone backstage at local amateur dramatic performances – a role that brings its own excitement, deadlines, and surprises.