Who We Are

Established in early 2006, lsland Associates is led by two partners:

John Bentley: With over 28 years experience in the public sector, John brings a wealth of experience in community regeneration, economic development and organisational and policy development. Prior to setting up Island Associates he was Head of Corporate Policy and Communications for the Isle of Wight Council. He was also Policy & Strategy Director for the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership and worked in London for over 16 years in a number of community regeneration roles. John leads the work on fund raising, organisational development and strategic planning. He jointly leads on delivery of other aspects of Island Associates services.

Kim Hailstone: With over 20 years experience in the private and voluntary sectors, Kim brings particular experience in basic skills, vocational training and workforce development. Kim has been a consultant for 3 years and joined forces with John to set up Island Associates. As manager of Community Solutions, an Isle of Wight voluntary sector training provider, she successfully developed an extensive programme of learning initiatives for those working in adult social care delivering services to unemployed and disadvantaged people. Kim leads the work on training, workforce development and capacity building and has specialist knowledge of related Government policies such as "Skills for Life". She jointly leads on other aspects of Island Associates services.

Island Associates also has a network of associates who provide additional capacity and specialist support in a number of areas:

• Organisational development
• Marketing and PR
• Training & workforce development
• HR support
• Planning and site development
• Community development
• Finance and business management