A leading advocate for social mobility and regional enterprise, championing positive change across the North of England and beyond.
ABOUT ALISON
Alison Dunn is a values‑led leader driven by a deep commitment to fairness, integrity, and inclusion. Guided by the belief that social justice starts with how we lead, she works to create environments where people and communities can thrive.
As CEO of the Society Matters Group, Alison led a remarkable turnaround, transforming the organisation from the brink of insolvency into a resilient, purpose‑driven enterprise with growing impact across the North East and beyond. Central to her leadership is the belief that business can and should be a force for good, championing bold changes including a four‑day working week, anti‑racist practice, and a culture rooted in wellbeing and accountability.
Recognised regionally and nationally for her leadership, Alison continues to demonstrate that meaningful change is driven not by authority, but by values, courage, and the collective power of people working together.
COMING SOON
“The truth about female allyship and why the way we show up for each other matters more than ever.”
Friend or Foe is Alison Dunn’s candid exploration of female allyship - the women who lift us up, and those who, consciously or not, hold us back. Through lived experience and clear-eyed insight, Alison examines how power, privilege, and workplace culture shape our relationships with one another.
This is not about blame. It’s about understanding, choice, and refusing to quietly step backwards. In a world where political ideologies are shifting and hard-won rights are under threat, allyship is not a soft skill, it’s a force for change.
Friend or Foe? Navigating Power, Privilege and the Politics of Female Leadership
“Alison Dunn is a passionate social justice advocate who has led Citizens Advice Gateshead to transform the lives of thousands in the North East. Her leadership has resulted in financial gains and significant growth in both staff and services, all while championing cross-sector collaboration to address poverty and inequality. Alison’s a thought leader and a strong voice for people; she’s actively involved in empowering communities and advocating for the views of disadvantaged people within the region.”