Our journey so far

Director

Mark Birnie

As one of the founders of M2 Education, I have over 15 years’ experience working with Primary, Secondary and SEND schools throughout Lancashire. As I edge slowly towards the big 40 many of the schools I have worked with have seen me grow from a boy to a man over the years. Outside of work, life has certainly changed in this period as I have swapped the bright lights of bars for a more relaxed life at home with my wife Claire, dog Chico and crossword book! My true passion in life is Travel and I have travelled to over 50 countries across the globe, so if you need your very own free travel guide do not hesitate to ask!

Director

Melissa Kumar

Hi, I’m Mel, the other founder of M2 Education. I have been working with Primary, Secondary and SEN schools throughout Cumbria since I started in recruitment, many moons ago! My motto has always been to work hard and have fun doing it…and that is definitely what I do. I have built long-standing relationships over the years and will always go the extra mile for my schools and supply staff,

Having climbed Kilimanjaro, completed the Great North Run twice and done bungee jumps in Greece and New Zealand, my daredevil days are now on the backburner whilst I spend time with my beloved Cooper the Cavapoo, renovate the house and start to plan my wedding!

Team Leader

Scott Apter

Hello, I’m Scott.

I am one of the Team Leaders for M2 Education in Preston. I have been with M2 for over 4 years and love each day! I work with Nurseries in Lancashire and Primary Schools in East Lancashire. Overall, I have been in recruitment for over 7 years with prior experience in the Health & Social Care sector and I pride myself on my excellent customer service and client relationships.

Outside of M2 Education, you can find me out and about with family or tucked away behind my PC (as a self-declared, computer geek!).

Team Leader

Nicola Hale

I’m Nicola I joined M2 in 2018 as a Team Leader and I haven’t looked back since.

I have worked as an Education Consultant for over 13 years, my current role is working with the Primary schools in Cumbria. I love my job and helping the people I work with – being a former Nursery Manager I feel I have real empathy with both client and candidates.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my son, Manny, and supporting my beloved St Helen’s RLFC

Lead Education Consultant

Joseph Chanter

Lead Education Consultant

Adam Stammers

Operations Manager & DSO

Linda Cross

Hi – I’m Linda. Newcastle born and bred, I have been working in the North East branch of M2 Education for almost 5 years. Having previously worked as a SEND Teaching Assistant, I moved into Education Recruitment, initially as the Safeguarding and Compliance Officer and am now proud to say I am the Trainee Operations Manager for the North East!

Away from the office, as a doting dog and cat-mum, you will usually find me at home with a gin and tonic catching up on embarrassing reality TV.

Principal Education Consultant

Dave Todd

Hi, I’m David, working in the Newcastle branch of M2 Education as one of the Education Consultants for secondary schools in the North East. I came to M2 in 2020 with 14 years of experience, working mainly with secondary schools.

Outside of work I have a massive passion for music, travelling across the country and overseas with my partner and teenage daughter to gigs. I  have played the guitar since I was 9 years old (which is a VERY LONG time ago), and have over 10 guitars littered around my house which I play daily.

I’m a complete science nerd and initially trained as a Biology Teacher after leaving University.

Lead Education Consultant

Gemma Richardson

Hi, I’m Gemma, one of the education consultants at the North East office, having recently joined in 2020 to provide support to the consultants. I am the first point of contact for all candidates, responsible for taking them through the entire registration process and come with a wealth of recruitment exposure, 14 years to be exact! And I love what I do!

Outside of work, you will find me nowhere else but having fun exploring the outdoors with both my fiancé & daughter. Oh and wedding planning.… maybe that one with a prosecco in hand!

Finance Manager

Joanna Hannett

I have been with M2 since the beginning and I am so proud of how much we’ve achieved so far. Since being a receptionist 10 years ago, to admin support and now finance manager; I’ve grown professionally with Mel and Mark’s support and looking forward to seeing what the future holds. I am a mother to two fantastic girls and in my free time, I enjoy running, hiking and cooking.

Recruitment Administrator (North East)

Chloe Bond

Recruitment Administrator (North West)

Ruth Omokhui