Governance (ID 1001)

• Ian Digman
  Chair of Governors
  Ian Digman

  Ian Digman is an experienced automotive engineer and business leader, with over 30 years working across the global mobility industry. After graduating from Loughborough University, he joined Ford's graduate scheme, where he spent 18 years in leadership roles spanning Germany, China, and the UK. His responsibilities ranged from manufacturing and product development to business strategy and transformation.

  To broaden his skill set, Ian earned an MBA from Duke University, complementing his technical background with commercial acumen. He subsequently held senior roles at Nissan and Infiniti in Switzerland, before returning to the UK to join McLaren Automotive. Since 2020, he has worked independently as an advisor to high-growth startups in the mobility and technology sectors.

  Returning to England after two decades abroad has allowed Ian to engage more actively in the local community. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees at the GASP Motor Project, a charity that supports at-risk young people through practical mechanical skills development.

  Ian is passionate about providing inclusive opportunities for all young people to thrive, and is keen to support the strategic development of appropriate education through his governance role. He brings a strong background in leadership, systems thinking, and stakeholder engagement, and is committed to promoting equity, wellbeing, and high aspirations within the school.

  He lives in Shalford with his wife, teenage daughter, and dog, and enjoys cycling, running, and restoring a classic 1970s Lancia.

• Meryl Forrest
  Community Governor
  Meryl Forrest

  Meryl Forrest is a Treasury specialist working in Professional Services. She has previously worked in the Banking sector, the UK financial services regulator, and within Parliament, giving her extensive experience in risk management, compliance, strategy, and governance.

  Having spent her early school years in California before moving to the UK, Meryl's own education was varied and gave her an appreciation for different learning environments and approaches. Now living locally with her husband and their four children, she is passionate about helping young people develop confidence, curiosity, and kindness.

• Harriet Gill
  Community Governor
  Harriet Gill

  Harriet brings over 25 years of commercial experience, including 14 years working closely with public sector organisations, to her role as a Governor at Bramley Grange Academy.
  With a strong understanding of the challenges faced by schools and multi-academy trusts, Harriet offers a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to governance. Her professional
  background includes a particular focus on inclusion, with a specific interest in supporting pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, as well as those unable to access mainstream education.
  Harriet previously served as a Governor at Send Church of England Primary School for
  nearly two years, where she specialised in data and inclusion, supporting the school in using insight and evidence to drive improvement and better outcomes for pupils.
  Through her work with schools, MATs, and government bodies, Harriet has developed
  valuable insight into the operational and strategic pressures within education, alongside a deep commitment to continuous improvement. She is especially passionate about helping schools work more efficiently, enabling teachers to focus on what matters most — teaching and supporting pupils — while also improving staff retention and reducing recruitment costs.
  Harriet strongly believes in the effective use of smart technology alongside human expertise to drive positive outcomes for students, educators, and the wider education system.
  Harriet lives in Send, Woking with her husband and their 13-year-old son and is delighted to support Bramley Grange Academy in her role as Governor