Pride and progress – ICAEW Pride Gala Dinner

Christopher Joell-Deshields, Chief Executive of Pride in London
Christopher is the CEO of Pride in London, the UK's largest Pride, the third largest outdoor event in London, and one of the world's leading Pride celebrations. He also serves as the Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion at InterPride. His journey with Pride in London began in 2016 as a volunteer before ascending to the Board of Directors in 2018 as Director of Community Engagement. Prior to his leadership at Pride in London, Christopher served as Head of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at a leading UK disability charity and as Deputy Director for the Government of Bermuda's London Office, leading on International Relations & Diplomacy. Christopher's extensive experience spanning non-profit, government, and advocacy sectors has equipped him with the vision and ability to unite diverse communities. His leadership focuses on amplifying underrepresented voices and advancing LGBTQ+ rights globally during a critical time when these rights face increasing challenges in many parts of the world.

Kathryn Cearns OBE
A chartered accountant with extensive senior level experience in both the public and private sectors, Kathryn was Chair of the Financial Reporting Advisory Board to HM Treasury from 2010 to 2016 and was Chair of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) Financial Reporting Committee for 10 years up to the end of 2017. She was also until recently a Trustee of Mencap and Non-Executive Director and Chair of Audit and Risk Committee for National Highways. Kathryn is currently Chair of the Press Recognition Panel and Vice-Chair of The Property Ombudsman. She is Chair of the Audit Risk and Assurance Committee at the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, a Member of the Group Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee of the Department for Transport and a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee and Remuneration Committee of DfT Operator Ltd. She serves as Lay Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of the British Medical Association.

Jamie Gill, Founder, the Outsiders Perspective
Jamie is a Strategic Advisor within the fashion, luxury, and retail industries. He is the founder of The Outsiders Perspective – an organisation driving innovation and representation in luxury, fashion and beauty and media. He is an Executive Board Member of the British Fashion Council (BFC), with a focus on representation in the fashion industry. He was formerly CEO of luxury womenswear brand ROKSANDA. Gill is passionate about mentorship and championing emerging British brands on a global level. Whilst seeing representation as integral to business growth. He advises international organisations on their growth strategies.