Get to know us
The inspiration for DRPA emerged from the dynamic partnership between Paula and Jo, a collaboration that brought together two distinct yet complementary skill sets. Paula’s talent for streamlining systems and harnessing technological solutions aligned seamlessly with Jo’s creative vision and clinical expertise. This combination created a foundation for a service designed to not only meet professional demands but also anticipate and exceed them.
Paula’s time in international law firms has shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by high-performing professionals—balancing demanding schedules, navigating complex systems, and managing time-critical needs. This experience gave her an eye for crafting tailored, practical solutions. Jo’s clinical acumen and innovative thinking brought a deeply human perspective to their shared mission, ensuring that every decision was grounded in empathy and an understanding of what truly matters to people.
Together, they envisioned DRPA as more than a service; they saw it as a partnership with professionals, offering support that integrates seamlessly into their lives. The introduction of personal concierge and travel services was one such innovation, inspired by Paula’s insights into delivering solutions that free professionals to focus on their priorities. These offerings—alongside their streamlined systems—illustrate DRPA’s commitment to reducing stress, enhancing productivity, and creating moments of ease for clients.
This collaboration is fuelled by a shared passion for building a supportive, motivated community for clinicians. Paula and Jo’s vision for DRPA goes beyond solving immediate challenges; it’s about fostering long-term success and well-being, where professionals feel equipped, valued, and empowered to thrive both professionally and personally.
Paula is a highly accomplished professional with over 35 years of expertise in administrative, social media, and business management. Her career spans the surveying, law, and healthcare industries, where she has consistently excelled at creating efficient processes and driving organisational success.
Paula is an expert in administrative technology and thrives on streamlining processes, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing effective solutions. Her skillset includes project and lean management, alongside a talent for developing bespoke tools and systems that enhance performance. Known for her resourcefulness and determination, Paula is a powerhouse of positivity and energy, consistently delivering results with a people-first approach.
Outside of DRPA, Paula is a mum of two adult sons and a true campervan enthusiast. She and her dad transformed a school bus into a campervan, complementing her beloved vintage VW T25. These mobile workspaces have allowed Paula to combine her passion for travel with her commitment to DRPA, enabling her to work remotely across France, Spain, and beyond. This flexibility aligns perfectly with the fast-paced needs of DRPA’s clients, allowing Paula to be accessible and responsive at all times.
With her unique blend of experience, innovation, and personal dedication, Paula is at the heart of DRPA’s success, ensuring clients receive unparalleled service every step of the way.
Jo is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in the fields of psychology, research, and business development. With a unique array of academic, professional, and clinical experience, Jo is adept at identifying areas to maximise operational efficiencies, streamline processes, and ensure you are providing an outstanding patient experience.
Alongside her role as director at DRPA, Jo is the Founder and CEO of The ND Harbour, a registered charity established in 2024, where she is committed to supporting neurodivergent children and adults in Kent. In this role, Jo has successfully led the charity through its registration process, recruited a board of trustees, and secured funding from notable organisations including Kent County Council and NHS Kent and Medway. Her responsibilities also encompass managing outreach, publicity, fundraising, HR, quality management, and facilitating social and support groups.
In addition to her work at The ND Harbour, Jo offers consulting services via Mental Healthcare Development Services, where she assists mostly neurodevelopmental assessment services with bid writing, process improvement, and data analysis.
Jo earned a PhD in Psychology from the University of Bath, focusing on visual attention in autism. She has contributed to numerous research projects, published several articles in reputable journals, and presented findings at international conferences. Her clinical experience includes administration of the ADOS-2 as part of multidisciplinary autism assessments and in research, and psychological report writing.
