Jane Furniss has been a trustee of Cumberland Lodge since 2016. She is a Non Exec Director on the Board of the UK Supreme Court. From Sept 2017 to Dec 2023, Jane was a Lay Commissioner at the Judicial Appointments Commission, selecting candidates for judicial office. She also provides mentoring support and advice to people seeking public appointments and non-executive roles in public and charitable sectors.
She is a supporter of two homelessness charities, and campaigns to reduce homelessness and improve public awareness of the issues. She chairs the Appeal Board which is raising the capital to build a new local Hospice in Calderdale.
Jane was a NED on the Board at the National Crime Agency, from 2013 to 2019. Prior to that, she was Chief Executive of the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) from 2006 to 2013. During her career as a senior civil servant, she was responsible for Government policy on victims, crime and justice. As Director General, she led a strategic change programme to reform the way the criminal justice system works. Prior to her time in central government, she occupied senior roles in HM Inspectorate of Probation and the probation service.
Jane’s first degree was in history and philosophy, followed by a Masters in social work. She is married to David, and divides her time between London and West Yorkshire. She keeps fit by running, swimming and doing pilates, and relaxes through art, music and travel.
Jane was appointed CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2012.