Meet the team

Kim Herbert Managing Director Kim joined Happy Days in 2004 as HR Manager, and later became Operations Manager and then Managing Director. She is passionate about people and takes pride in ensuring that all colleagues and children are nurtured. Kim has been an integral part of the nursery’s evolution into the thriving group it is today and is excited to lead Happy Days into a new era of growth. When Kim isn’t working, she loves to travel and experience different cultures, but her greatest passion is spending time with her family, and exploring the great outdoors.

Mark Beadle Executive Chair Mark would describe himself as an escaped accountant who has spent over 20 years working in care and education. He loves the first class care and education that Happy Days provides and is enjoying our growth that is allowing us to welcome new children and families in new nurseries. In his spare time, after he has walked “Jacko” the cavapoo, he enjoys reading, cooking, travel and going to the rugby.

Fiona Blackwell Operations Director Fiona has over 30 years’ experience in the childcare sector, working as a practitioner after completing her Nursery Nurse Diploma and then in a management capacity, developing a passion for Operations. Fiona is committed to support her team to deliver consistently good and outstanding childcare and education. In her spare time Fiona enjoys partaking in a challenge, watching her son in various sporting activities and being out and about with her crazy Springer Spaniel!

Kevin Higgs Development Director Kevin Higgs, joined Happy Days in Feb 2015 having previously worked across the greater South West in the property industry for 35 years specialising in Acquisition, Development and Portfolio management, in various roles including for Tesco and Lambert Smith Hampton. A Chartered Surveyor who since joining has built a strong organic pipeline, managed the nursery property portfolio and Facilities Management.

Marcia Viccars Merger & Acquisitions Director Marcia has over 20 years of leadership in the childcare sector spent acquiring settings and driving operational efficiency whilst delivering a constant programme of growth and expansion. Marcia is passionate about supporting nurseries to provide high quality childcare which delivers the best outcomes for children. Marcia enjoys exercise, walking and spending time with her family and friends.

Toni Kilby Finance Director Toni has over 15 years of experience in finance, acquisitions, and project management within the childcare sector. As Finance Director, Toni provides strategic leadership for the business and finance functions, as well as strategic oversight of IT projects. Toni is a highly collaborative FD who works across all functions to support the group’s vision. In her spare time Toni enjoys travelling, supporting Northampton Saints and going to live gigs with family and friends.