One of the North East's youngest finance directors has been recognised with a prestigious accolade for achieving a high level of success early in her career.

Claire Stafford, who joined the Emmanuel Schools Foundation last summer, was announced as runner-up in the region's Top 30 Under 30 at the annual dinner of the Institute of Directors for the North East.

Aged just 24, Claire plays a central role in supporting the four multi-million pound schools sponsored by Durham-based ESF, the charitable foundation established by Sir Peter Vardy.

The schools - Emmanuel College in Gateshead, The King's Academy in Middlesbrough, Trinity Academy at Thorne, near Doncaster, and Bede Academy, in Blyth, Northumberland - educate 5,500 students in state of the art facilities.

In managing ESF's finances, Claire's role ensures the Foundation's vision - to provide outstanding education and facilities for its students and staff - can be delivered within the constraints of educational funding.

Originally from Slatyford in Newcastle, Claire had gained seven years' experience as a commercial accountant and completed her ACCA accountancy qualifications with Ernst & Young, one of the biggest global financial services firms.

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