The latest Bondholder appointments and promotions

Over The Wall Camp, Geldards, Horsley Lodge, Derby County and Penguin PR are among the latest Marketing Derby Bondholders to announce new appointments in recent weeks.

Over The Wall Camp, which provides free-of-charge residential and virtual camps for children aged 8 to 17 years living with long-term health conditions and disabilities, and their families, has welcomed Alex Copeland as its new chief executive.

He takes over the role from Kevin Mathieson, who decided to retire late last year, but will continue to remain involved with the charity in a senior advisory role.

Alex was previously chief executive at homeless charity Northampton Hope Centre and Hope Enterprises.

He joins the charity with over 20 years of leadership experience working with charities, education and the sports sector.

In 2024, Over The Wall Camp secured its first permanent home at the former Ockbrook School.

This summer, the 17-acre site will welcome hundreds of children and young people living with long-term health conditions and disabilities, and their families.

Alex said: “I’m thrilled to join Over The Wall Camp at such an exciting time in its journey.

“Securing a permanent home at Ockbrook opens up incredible opportunities to expand our transformative camps and reach even more children and families living with long-term health conditions.

“I’m passionate about building on the charity’s outstanding work and ensuring every child has the chance to rediscover the magic of childhood in a safe, supportive environment.”

Law firm Geldards has announced a raft of promotions across its offices, including four new partners.

The promotions, covering a range of teams and specialisms, which came into effect at the start of the month, recognise the talent and dedication of the firm’s workforce and their valuable contribution to the growth and success of the business.

The senior associates promoted to partner are Henry Bright, Kate Keenan, Llinos Davies and Rachel Kirby.

Meanwhile, eight solicitors have been promoted to associate, while one associate – Rhys Thompson – has been promoted to senior associate.

Chief executive Jeff Pearson said: “The hard working and talented staff at Geldards are at the heart of our business.

“We pride ourselves on providing an exceptional legal service to our valued clients, and this is only possible due to the outstanding people who work here.

“I am delighted to offer my congratulations on all the promotions this year and pay tribute to everyone who has contributed to continued growth and development of the firm, maintaining our position as a market-leading law firm.”

The Farmhouse Kitchen at Horsley Lodge has welcomed Chris Higham as its new head chef.

Chris brings an impressive culinary background, with eight years’ experience as a head chef, most recently at Darleys Restaurant.

His career also includes cooking at three-rosette level and in Michelin-starred kitchens.

Chris is already working on fresh new menus that build on the restaurant’s much-loved identity and loyal following.

Elaine Butler, General Manager at Horsley Lodge, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Chris to Farmhouse Kitchen.

“His experience, passion, drive and ambition, not to mention his impeccable reputation, are exactly what we were looking for.

“Already, Chris has brought such great energy to the team.

“Our guests love the relaxed gastro pub style we are known for, and Chris is enhancing that with exciting new menu options, from breakfast through to dinner, as well as updated wedding and event menus.

“We are all excited for the year ahead and for what 2026 will bring and we cannot wait for everyone to see and be a part of what Horsley Lodge has planned.”

Derby County has added to the club’s commercial team with the appointment of a new partnership sales lead.

Matt Wasley comes with over 20 years of experience in sports partnerships, having held management roles at London Irish Rugby Club, Arsenal Football Club and Ascot Racecourse.

He will report into Dave Biggar, chief commercial officer, and aims to grow the club’s commercial portfolio.

Matt said: “I’m thrilled to join Derby County, one of the most historic English football clubs.

“I’m excited to bring my experience and knowledge to this role as we look to build on the strong foundations already in place and by building sustainable new partnerships and revenue streams that benefit the club both on and off the pitch.”

Finally, public relations firm Penguin PR has announced the appointment of Olivia Hancock as PR account manager.

Olivia brings marketing and communications experience to Penguin PR, having spent the past 10 years working in marketing roles within the independent education sector.

She joins from one of the country’s leading independent schools, Repton School, where she most recently held the position of brand manager.

Simon Burch, a director at Penguin PR, said: “We’re thrilled to have added Olivia to our team, and she is already bringing her knowledge and experience to bear on our clients’ accounts as we all adapt to the rapid changes in our industry.

“In particular, her experience in the education sector will stand us in good stead as we seek to strengthen our position serving schools and academy trusts, while her career background enables us to better understand how our PR campaigns fit into our clients’ all-round marketing mix.”