Our Team

Meet our passionate team behind MENTA, where we blend expert business support, tailored training, and a diverse portfolio of properties to help your business thrive.

Meet Our Team

Alex Till

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

As MENTA’s CEO, Alex is a dynamic leader with an unwavering passion for the world of business. His insatiable curiosity fuels his drive to connect with entrepreneurial visionaries and creative minds, constantly seeking inspiration to elevate Suffolk and Norfolk to new heights of success and nationwide acclaim as vibrant hubs for living and working. Alex’s visionary leadership extends beyond MENTA as he assumes the pivotal role of chair for the National Enterprise Network. Collaborating with both government and industry, he spearheads initiatives that foster the growth and nurturing of enterprises, fortifying their foundations and empowering them to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Mark Smyth

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Mark is a commercially minded accountant with a wealth of experience and knowledge gained in a variety of businesses over the last 37 years. Mark’s skill set and personality are well suited to working with ambitious high growth start-up businesses, with him also having strong understanding of the needs and dynamics of sole traders and micro business.

Mark has made a high positive impact when managing the accounts departments of venture capital and angel investor backed companies as well as owner managed businesses.

He is particularly strong on corporate governance and internal controls, budgeting, financial modelling and contract negotiation.

Emily Thompson

Relationships Manager

Emily joined MENTA as Site Co-ordinator before progressing to Marketing Co-ordinator and now Relationships Manager, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the business from the ground up. Drawing on her degree in Psychology and a background in hospitality, she builds strong, lasting connections with clients, members and partners, creating positive experiences at every stage, from a first enquiry through to long-term membership. Emily works closely with local entrepreneurs, businesses and partner organisations to promote MENTA’s business support services, co-working spaces and business units, making sure everyone who engages with MENTA feels supported and valued. Passionate about the growth of businesses in the region, she is dedicated to fostering a thriving community that reflects MENTA’s mission to empower local businesses.

Jessica Morris

@inc Southwold Co-ordinator and Programme Administrator

With extensive experience in customer service, Jess is an integral part of the MENTA team, where she oversees daily activities at @inc Southwold, balancing customer care with key administrative duties. In her role, Jess ensures smooth processes, supports clients and tenants, and maintains an efficient welcoming environment. Known for her attention to detail and dedication to service excellence, Jess brings a proactive approach to every aspect of her work with MENTA.

Abbie Harper-Rowe

@inc Bury St Edmunds Co-ordinator and Administrator

With a degree in Fine Art and a background in hospitality and customer service, Abbie is a valued member of the MENTA team, where she helps run daily operations at @inc Bury St Edmunds. Abbie supports clients and tenants with warmth and professionalism, balancing front-of-house care with key administrative duties such as managing bookings, handling enquiries and keeping records organised. Her creative eye, organised approach and people-focused nature help shape a space that is both inspiring and efficient, and her dedication to excellent service makes her a natural fit for the MENTA community.

Isabelle Haste

Marketing and Social Media Apprentice

As MENTA’s Marketing and Social Media Apprentice, Isabelle brings fresh energy and creativity to the team, helping to shape and share the story of MENTA and @inc across our social channels and marketing activity. From creating engaging content to supporting campaigns and events, she plays a key role in connecting with our community of members, tenants and local businesses. Outside of work, Isabelle is a footballer, and she brings the same teamwork, determination and competitive drive from the pitch into everything she does at MENTA.

Darcey Thurgood

Marketing and Business Administration Apprentice

Darcey is our Apprentice, working with both MENTA and Southwold Town Council as she builds her skills and experience in business support. She brings great energy and a positive attitude to everything she does, making her a valued member of the team. When she’s not at work, Darcey enjoys staying active at the gym and exploring new restaurants – she’s always up for trying something different.