Elizabeth Paris is a member of the Governing Body as the representative of Common Purpose, and combines this local expertise with her extensive experience in investment banking.

She started her career at Chase Manhattan Bank in 1982 after reading Modern History at University College , Oxford . During the nineteen years she spent in investment banking her roles included client management, as the Head of Northern European Shipping Division, product management, as Head of Tax Effective Finance, and finally strategy, as Head of Strategic Planning for Europe , Africa and the Middle East . The final role included significant involvement in mergers as Chase merged with Chemical Bank, Flemings and finally JP Morgan.

As a Managing Director for over ten years herself, Elizabeth was heavily involved in mentoring junior women and pioneered the introduction of flexible working arrangements for those at senior levels. This interest has since extended into work as an executive coach, especially for those who, like her, seek a new and contrasting career after the City.

In 2001 Elizabeth , craving a new challenge, left the City and took up the role of Senior Programme Director for Common Purpose in Oxfordshire. Common Purpose is a not-for-profit international organisation which aims to improve the way society works, ( commonpurpose.org.uk ). As the local director, Elizabeth works across the private, public and voluntary sectors to develop local leaders who will lead outside their authority to resolve local issues.

Alongside this role Elizabeth works as a Finance Sector Consultant at the Oxford Said Business School and is the Administrator for the British Königswinter Committee. She is also a Trustee of the Oxfordshire Artsweek Educational Trust.

Elizabeth is married with two daughters, and has been living in Oxfordshire since 1993.