stella parkes
Stroud Valleys Project Nominee
Born and bred in Stroud, I have been an active volunteer in the local charitable sector for over 35 years. I bring a wealth of experience in community development, governance, communications, and strategic planning—all of which are highly relevant to the role of director at Heavens Valley CBS.
I currently serve as Chair of Trustees for Stroud Valleys Project, an environmental and nature based charity, and I am also a trustee of Lansdown Hall and Gallery, a Grade II Listed Building and community arts centre. I have previously served as a trustee of the Biodynamic Land Trust, and was Town Mayor of Stroud from 2022 to 2024, with a strong focus on inclusive community engagement. Over the years, I’ve contributed to numerous grassroots initiatives including the Stroud Community Planning Conference, Slad Valley Action Group, and Stroud Against Supermarket Saturation.
Professionally, I have a background in journalism, public relations, and corporate communications, having led press offices for both Gloucestershire County Council and South Gloucestershire Council. My expertise includes crisis and reputation management, stakeholder communications, and working effectively within and alongside local government structures and partnering with the voluntary sector.