Rachel van Staveren - Managing Director

Rachel has been with Cloud 9 since the company formed in 1995. She is an experienced carer, although her many duties within Cloud 9 mean that she doesn't do very much direct care work. As a regular church-goer Rachel tries to bring her Christian ethics into the workplace.

Rachel obtained a degree in Social Sciences with the Open University and holds a Post-Graduate Certificate in Social Policy. She has obtained the NVQ Level IV Registered Manager's Award and is a certified Manual Handling Instructor.

Rachel plays an active role in the Essex Independent Care Association and also undertakes external training and consultancy work.

Outside work Rachel enjoys walking with her dog, Sadie (often to be found in the Cloud 9 office), music (singing with Lexden Choral Society) and cricket (travelling the world supporting England).

Michelle Potter - General Manager

Michelle is Cloud 9's expert-by-experience in the delivery of care, with over 20 years' experience working in the field. She joined Cloud 9 in 1997 as a carer, being promoted to Senior Carer, Care Manager and finally General Manager.

Michelle is responsible for the day-to-day operation of Cloud 9, particularly ensuring the correct allocation of staff to clients. Michelle still undertakes care work if needed.

Michelle is also a dog-lover and when not at work she will normally be found doing something special with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 

Katie Houlding - Team Manager

Katie is the latest recruit to the Cloud 9 Management Team.  She joined us as a carer in 2005 and has made rapid progressive to become a Manager at the start of 2010.  Katie has achieved NVQ Level II in Care and is currently studying for her Level III qualification.

Katie is another dog-lover (it is not a requirement for Cloud 9 Managers, but it seems to help) and when she gets any free time she likes to spend it with family and friends.