Our team
Most people first meet us through our frontline staff and volunteers — peer workers, group facilitators and the familiar faces who offer people support and understanding.
Behind them is a close-knit team of senior staff who guide our charity and keep lived experience at the centre of everything we do.
Senior Management
Dot Smith, CEO
Dot has led Recovery Connections for more than a decade, creating a community where people feel understood and welcomed. With 40 years’ experience in mental health and addiction services, she introduced the UK’s first university-based peer programme at Teesside University and helped Middlesbrough become the UK’s first Inclusive Recovery City. She continues to stand alongside people in the region, showing everyone in the North East that recovery is possible.
Jennifer Bryson, Deputy CEO
Jennifer began as a volunteer over 10 years ago and has helped our charity grow ever since. She plays a key role in leadership, ensuring everything we do is grounded in lived experience. And she believes strongly in the difference that support and second chances can make.
Mark Stephenson, Development and Impact Lead
Mark has more than 25 years’ experience working alongside people overcoming drug and alcohol issues. He began as a frontline worker and later shaped services both locally and nationally. At Recovery Connections, his focus is making sure that people have the right opportunities and support — to build the lives they want.
Poppy Beall, Regional Manager
Poppy began volunteering in Stockton over 10 years ago , she has held a variety of roles across the sector, each one strengthening her belief in the power of community and the importance of ensuring that every voice is heard, driven by her own lived experience , her work is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and a strong sense of purpose—always striving to create spaces where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered.
Kathryne Arnold, Finance Manager
Kathryne joined the team in April 22 with over 20 years of experience in the Charitable Sector. As Finance Manager, she is dedicated to supporting our vital regional services and finds her role highly rewarding.