Welcome to our leadership spotlight series, where we ask each leader 10 quick-fire questions so that we can give a little insight into the person behind a leadership role.

Sam is National Numeracy’s Chief Executive, joining to lead the organisation towards a new five-year strategy.

Sam brings a range of experience in helping to scale-up the reach and impact of charities. He was the Chief Operating Officer at social work charity, Frontline, and previously served as Director of Development at Teach First and as an Assistant Director of Research at the Yale University Office of Development.

Sam has held trustee positions at a number of youth development and humanitarian aid charities, and has degrees from University College London and the University of Oxford.

What was your first job?

Assistant in a bike shop.

What is the best piece of leadership advice you’ve been given?

Trust your colleagues, assume the best intent and require them to take responsibility.

What or who is your most admired purpose-led organisation or person?

Young Enterprise.

What do you do to help ensure good mental health?

Get outside for exercise, take regular breaks, be disciplined about switching off. Read before bed!

What is the most impactful leadership decision you’ve made?

Recruiting colleagues capable of taking the organisation to the next level and insisting on not taking all the decisions.

If you needed some sound advice, who would you call?

My CEO action learning set/coaching circle colleagues. I previously had a fantastic coach and they would often be my first port of call.

What is your dream job? (Apart from your current one!)

An international leadership role, for example within the UN, or being a teacher.

Favourite place to eat?

My local pizzeria/trattoria – it instantly transports me to being on holiday in Italy!

Why are you in the purpose-led sector?

So that my work has meaning and helps people and society, and working with others who want the same thing.

What are you currently watching or reading?

The Body Keeps the Score: Bessel van der kolk.

Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us, Sam.

If you would like to learn more about our work in the sector or would like to be featured in our series, you can contact us here.