Executive Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Stephen Hamlet
As Chief Executive, Stephen assumes responsibility for developing Russell Bedford on a global scale, including maximising membership benefits, focusing on strengthening the network, at the same time as maintaining its high reputation of quality.
Stephen provides strategic direction to the International Board, applying leadership and communicating with various cultures; engaging with existing member firms across several countries. In facilitating cross-border cooperation, as well as ensuring Russell Bedford continues to expand by acquiring additional quality firms throughout the world, Stephen assists the network in increasing commerce for members and their clients.
To view Stephen's full profile, please visit the CEO page.
NETWORK DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Kempton Bedell-Harper
Kempton is a marketing specialist with more than 30 years’ experience in the development and management of professional services organisations. He was responsible for business development and corporate communications in a global multi-discipline management and engineering consulting group before joining Russell Bedford International in 2000 as Marketing Director.
Having successfully developed and implemented the network’s branding and growth strategy, he has been instrumental in the transformation of Russell Bedford into a top-20 global player. Now, as Network Development Director, his focus is on further international network expansion and on events management.
Kempton is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. He has an MA in Marketing, a Diploma in Marketing and a Diploma of the Communications Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Education Foundation.
DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Lina Lemessiou
Lina joined Russell Bedford in November 2022 after working at EFRAG (European Financial Reporting Advisory Group), initially involved in the launch of projects to stimulate innovation and best practices in the field of corporate reporting in Europe, and then moving to central management in the development of draft European sustainability reporting standards.
Prior to that, her diverse professional experience included working on assurance in public practice with PricewaterhouseCoopers, internal audit in the financial services industry, audit oversight and regulatory compliance at international level for ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), as a technical expert on corporate reporting, audit, ethics, public policy and regulation for the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus, and as an adjunct professor for the University of Cyprus lecturing on auditing, financial reporting, ethics and corporate governance. For several years, she also acted as Counsellor on Company Law for the Government of Cyprus, with direct involvement in legislative developments at national and EU level on audit, accounting and non-financial information.
Lina holds a degree in computer science from the University of Manchester. She is also a Fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
EVENTS AND MEMBER RELATIONS MANAGER
Kathryn Davis
Kathryn joined Russell Bedford in October 2022 with 11 years’ experience working in the accountancy sector, most recently in the position of Head of Marketing and Communications.
She has excellent skills in communication and relationship-building, along with a passion for languages and appreciation of other cultures, making her well placed to connect and assist members wherever possible. This, combined with a good understanding of the internal systems and working processes within accountancy, makes her ideally positioned to enhance all facets of operations. She will also focus on event management and ensuring that our members receive the most value from Russell Bedford conferences around the world.
Kathryn has a first-class honours degree in modern languages with interpreting (French, Spanish), achieving a distinction in spoken French. She also has a professional qualification with the Chartered Institute of Marketing.
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Samantha Williams
Samantha joined Russell Bedford in February 2024 and brings over 15 years’ experience in marketing and communications. Creating and managing innovative approaches to marketing communications is what inspires Samantha in helping businesses to evolve and grow.
Contributions from previous marketing roles across global organisations involved researching and understanding key target audiences, and developing effective marketing communications and programmes that will attract, engage, and retain them.
Samantha has experience in managing creative processes and campaigns from end-to-end, as well as optimising marketing projects, and working collaboratively with teams both locally and internationally. She holds a Business Management degree from Kings’ College London and professional qualifications from the Market Research Society and Institute of Data and Marketing.
MARKETING AND MEMBER RELATIONS EXECUTIVE
Fatme Ardali
Fatme joined Russell Bedford in June 2022, working closely with the Central Office team on a vast array of responsibilities such as elevating the network’s online presence, executing online marketing activities, brand and event management, and publications.
Fatme holds a master’s degree in Human Rights and Politics from the London School of Economics. She possesses an in-depth understanding of marketing and communications functions and years of experience working for international corporations. Fatme has a passion for the promotion and protection of human rights and hopes to contribute to a more purposeful workplace for all.
COORDINATOR FOR LATIN AMERICA
Romina Sanabria
Romina graduated with a degree in Spanish - English Translation from the Buenos Aires University in Argentina. She joined Russell Bedford as a Coordinator for Latin America in September 2021 to manage and enhance communications with the network's Spanish speaking member firms. She is excited about interacting with members throughout the region and being connected to the Global Central Office.
She has many years of experience working in a global firm and developing her career in international business. Romina is very enthusiastic about taking on new challenges, progressing her personal and professional skills, and contributing to the development of Russell Bedford’s international network.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Gemma Benson
Gemma is the administrator for Russell Bedford. She has worked as a Personal Assistant/Administrator for over 20 years in the professional services and finance sectors. She is a valuable support to the central office and the network worldwide.
Gemma lives in Hertfordshire with her husband and two children. She is an avid reader and also enjoys home renovation, cooking and entertaining and going for long country walks with her dogs.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Jad Slim
A recent Marketing graduate, Jad is a dedicated research assistant, who brings a unique blend of analytical and creative skills to the team.
He possesses a solid foundation in understanding consumer behavior and market trends. He is committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive success in our projects, and is always excited to contribute skills and knowledge to further enhance our collaborative efforts.