We are Hope & May
Who we are
Hope and May was founded by Mark Burnett, as a small, family-run consultancy to help organisations navigate the challenges of data protection.
Our journey began in the charity sector and has evolved to encompass a broad range of industries, including retail, healthcare, fitness, and beyond. Today, we operate as a highly proficient team of practitioners, driven by strategic leadership.
Why choose Hope and May?
We’ve partnered with organisations of every size, giving us deep insight into the challenges businesses face when it comes to data protection. This experience allows us to anticipate obstacles and deliver practical, effective solutions tailored to your needs.
Our track record speaks for itself: we’ve helped hundreds of organisations achieve compliance through intensive audits, outsourced Data Protection Officer (DPO) support, and engaging, results-driven training programs. When you work with us, you gain a trusted partner committed to safeguarding your data and strengthening your compliance posture
What makes our approach unique?
Expert, tailored advice from qualified professionals.
A proactive approach that prevents problems before they arise.
Clear communication – no jargon, just straight answers.
Genuine partnership – we see ourselves as part of your team.
Confidence and compliance – so you can focus on your mission or business goals.
Our Vision Framework:
Our Mission: To make data protection clear, accessible, and actionable
Our Values: Integrity, Accountability, and Trust in every shape and form
Our Goals: To help you achieve and remain compliant with the law, now, and in the future!
Hope & May – protecting the data that protects your business!
Meet the team
Our Directors
Mark Burnett GDPR.Cert
Mark has worked In Data Analysis and Data Protection Law for more than 15 years. Mark established one of the first consultancies to offer GDPR advice and guidance to the voluntary sector and has helped over 1000 organisations to improve compliance. In 2017 he became a Certified GDPR Data Protection Practitioner. He has worked with organisations in Switzerland, Turkey, many of the EU countries, India, Pakistan and the DRC. Mark is a recognised fundraising trainer and London Committee member to the Chartered Institute of Fundraising. He is also a trained Caldicott Guardian.
CEO & Founder
Sofiya Mhaisale
Sofiya is a solicitor and foreign-qualified lawyer. As the COO at Hope & May Limited, she leads strategic operations and manages a team of practitioners in delivering data protection support services and has data protection expertise across diverse sectors. She is also a trained Caldicott Guardian, ensuring the ethical handling of sensitive information.
Chief Operating Officer
Denise Burnett
For the past 12 years Denise has worked for one of UKs largest employee-owned business, handling administrative activities customer facing and problem solving. I am very excited to be supporting Hope and May.
Chief Financial Officer
Our Practitioners
Abbie Beckett
Abbie has worked in both delivery and operations in the charity sector for over 5 years, most recently holding a Data Protection Officer role which helped build her passion for data protection. She is keen to support those in the voluntary sector by developing confidence, deepening understanding and sharing the importance of data protection compliance.Â
Data Protection Practitioner
Nesar Khan
After completing his legal studies at university, Nesar has supported both individuals and businesses with legal compliance across various industries. Nesar has extensive experience working in the charity/not for profit sector and is particularly keen on assisting organisations with meeting their obligations under data protection law. As a Data Protection Practitioner at Hope and May, Nesar hopes to continue supporting organisations with their compliance needs whilst developing his knowledge and skillset further.
Data Protection Practitioner
Niyati Walia
Niyati has a strong foundation in law, built through her academic background and legal experience. She has previously worked with charities and NGOs which, coupled with her legal expertise, equips her with a holistic understanding of data privacy issues. She is passionate about using her knowledge to empower organisations with meaningful, impactful solutions to safeguard sensitive information’
Data Protection Practitioner
Angjela Molla
As a legal graduate with experience in the transport sector, specialising in data governance and compliance, Angjela is excited to continue her journey in data privacy as a Data Protection Practitioner at Hope and May. She is committed to upholding the highest standards of governance and compliance and hopes to support organisations in doing the same.
Data Protection Practitioner
Molly Calveley
Molly has a strong understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and the careful handling of sensitive information, gained through her work supporting children, young people, and professionals across education and public services. She is committed to high standards of data protection and helping organisations handle information with care and confidence.
Data Protection Assistant
Zainab Khan
Zainab has developed a strong foundation in governance and compliance through her roles in consultancy, and quality management. She has experience maintaining controlled documentation, supporting policy updates, coordinating governance meetings, and preparing organisation for audits. Her background has equipped her with a clear understanding of regulatory principles and the importance of accurate, transparent record-keeping.
Zainab is excited to build on her skills within the field of data protection and looks forward to supporting organisations with practical, well-structured compliance solutions.
Data Protection Assistant
Business Support
Lisa Oliver
Having left college with a secretarial qualification, Lisa went on to work in London as a PA for Deloitte and PricewaterhouseCoopers, both one of the big 8 accountancy organisations, gaining valuable experience within the accountancy sector. She later joined the international law firm, HerbersmithFreehills as a Legal PA, where she worked for over 23 years supporting partners, senior associates and associates.
Personal Assistant
Matt Smithers|
Matt has over 15 years senior marketing experience and over 10 years’ experience in the Not-For-Profit sector. Whilst Matt is working to ensure that Hope & May are visible to those who may need our support, he also has first hand experience of the challenges and pitfalls faced within the sector to ensure data compliance.
Head of Marketing & Performance