Over the past 17 years Matt has worked in place making, across a variety of disciplines including planning, housing, finance, regeneration and economic growth. This has been experienced gained working across different parts of Northern England: Cheshire, County Durham, Teesside, North Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. Working with all political leaderships, Combined Authorities in rural, coastal and urban environments covering District, Borough, County Council and Metropolitan Unitary Authorities.

Matt is the Executive Director of Growth & Sustainability for Barnsley MBC, his remit covers strategic leadership for a broad range of services including Skills & Employment, Assets, Housing, Planning, Economic Development, Highways, Waste, Bereavement Services, Sport, Neighbourhoods, Parks, Strategic Transport, Digital, Commercial Services, Fleet, Regulation and Culture.

At an education level Matt has an under graduate degree in Leisure Management, MBA with Distinction and is professionally qualified as a chartered surveyor.