Matthew Ponsford is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and a strategic HR leader with over 20 years of experience across the charity, hospitality, and professional services sectors. He currently serves as Strategic HR Business Partner at FitzRoy, a national adult social care charity, where plays a key role in organisational strategy, performance, reward, and equity, diversity and inclusion.
Matthew has a strong track record in coaching and mentoring senior leaders, supporting cultural transformation, and embedding inclusive, high-performing practices. His work includes designing KPI frameworks, leading succession planning initiatives, and driving employee engagement through innovative programmes and feedback mechanisms.
He holds an MSc in Human Resources Management and Development and is currently completing an Executive MBA with Arden University. His qualifications also include ILM Level 7 Diplomas in Leadership and Executive Coaching, reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development and impactful leadership.
Matthew’s career has spanned roles in learning and development, graduate programme leadership, and operational management, giving him a broad perspective on organisational growth and talent development. He has led large-scale change programmes, including TUPE transfers and restructures, with a focus on fairness, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
As a trustee of Portsmouth Creates, Matthew brings a deep passion for community engagement and creative collaboration. His strategic insight and people-first approach support the organisation’s mission to empower local voices, foster cultural innovation, and build a thriving creative economy in Portsmouth.
He is proud to contribute to a more inclusive, vibrant city where creativity drives social and economic transformation.
