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Strategy Informed by Reality

Bridging the gap between rigorous policy and human experience. I help complex organisations deliver inclusion that stands up in practice.

About

I'm an inclusion strategist working with complex organisations on disability inclusion and LGBTQ+ equity. I've spent my career on both sides of this work: leading policy, governance, and operations across the charity and advisory sector, and living it as a disabled, LGBTQ+ professional who knows what happens when systems are designed without you in mind. The gap between what organisations say and what people actually experience is where I do my best work — and it's what I write and speak about most. Home is London.

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Methodology

Plain Language

Inclusion fails when it is unintelligible. I explain complex, sensitive topics clearly, ensuring rigour without losing nuance.

Real-World Design

Policy is only as good as its application. I prioritise frameworks and processes that managers can actually apply in the daily flow of work.

Outcome Focus

I meet people where they are. I create space for honest, difficult conversation while keeping a strict focus on the desired organisational outcome.

Calm Under Scrutiny

Inclusion is increasingly visible and sensitive. I bring a steady hand to governance and strategy when the stakes are high.

The Index

Selected Roles

Portrait of Hugh O'Keeffe

Hugh O'Keeffe

London, UK

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Selected Roles

Inclusion Lead

2023 – Present

Onvero
Workforce policy, governance & strategy for 400+ clients.

Assistant Director

2019 – 2022

Mosaic Trust
Operational strategy, safeguarding & LGBTQ+ youth engagement.

Operations Director

2022 – 2023

Tonic Housing
Launching the UK's first LGBTQ+ retirement community.
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Advisory & Boards

Civil Aviation Authority
Consumer Panel Member
Member since April 2026
DWP Disability Confident
Advisor
Policy guidance
Supporting Disabled People
Conference Chair
National Conference (2025)
Met Police DIAG
Former Advisor
Disability Independent Advisory Group
Muscle Help Foundation
Ex-Chair
Studio Lutalica
Board Chair
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Recognition

Award

Queer Leadership Award

Policy & Advocacy Impact We Create Space, 2025

Regular speaker and facilitator on inclusive cultures, disability inclusion and LGBTQ+ equity.

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Selected Writing

Published across the sector

Beyond Good Intentions: What Real Allyship Looks Like

Onvero
Apr 2026

Living Beyond the Form

Onvero
Feb 2026

It All Starts With a Conversation: Moving from Fear to Support for Disabled Colleagues

Onvero
Aug 2025
View all writing & media

The
Asterisk

Strategy informed by reality. Bringing the footnote to the headline.

Read The Journal (opens in new tab)

Writing is published in a personal capacity and does not represent the views of any employer or organisation.

The Feature

Long-form essays on systemic change and organisational culture.

Margin Notes

Quick observations, links, and reactions to the news cycle.

The Errata

Reality checks that unpick misconceptions about disability and identity.