Becky Ballinger

As Managing Director, Becky has overall responsibility for leading CDS and overseeing the successful delivery of cemetery and crematorium planning applications on behalf of our clients, with over a 95% success rate achieved on applications managed by CDS. Becky also leads the coordination of in-house delivery teams and external consultants, ensuring a seamless, fully integrated delivery process where all parties remain aligned through a centrally coordinated system under her direction.

Callum has recently joined CDS as a Senior Engineer with over 10 years experience in the Site Investigation industry, undertaking a wide range of contaminated land and geotechnical assessments on various sites including residential developments, commercial properties, and brownfield land. Callum has a vast array of experience in the organisation of both small- and large-scale site investigation works and has a background in waste classification work. Callum’s experience will expand the service offering to our clients.

Richard joins CDS with over 25 years’ experience of working in the construction industry in various management roles. Richard has taken the role of lead client-side project manager on projects varying in value from £100k – £25m + across the whole life cycle of projects from conception to handover and occupation. Richard has worked across a variety of sectors including health, leisure, heritage and education.

Paul, Dip Des DIT, is experienced in producing 2D and 3D AutoCAD drawings for various disciplines of the company. He works closely with the Landscape Architect and environment team to produce master plans for planning, site layouts and drainage management schemes.

Emma became part of CDS in 2021 as the Office Manager, where she plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless daily operations. Her responsibilities include office processes, coordinating meetings and overseeing invoicing. Most importantly, Emma serves as the primary liaison between our clients and project teams, ensuring clear communication and timely, effective client management. Her dedication ensures that every client receives exceptional service and support throughout their engagement with us.

Eliot, MSc, graduated from Loughborough University with an BSc in Geography in 2013 and graduated from Salford University with an MSc in GIS. he developed his spatial analysis skills for four years as a GIS Analyst at a Town Planning Consultancy. This role was pivotal in developing his passion for planning, as he leveraged GIS tools to analyse spatial data, inform development strategies, and support planning applications. He joined CDS in 2023 following four years as a planner at two well-known fast-food brands where he identified target areas for new openings and put together cases for new stores in both the UK and ROI.

Adam graduated from Coventry University with a 2:1 BA (Hons) in Geography. He joined CDS after 18 months in the public sector, where he worked with partners to deliver a review of the Safer Lincolnshire Partnership and focused on improving sustainability in the sector for years to come. Adam is now Planning Manager at CDS, leading and supporting the Planning Team in delivering feasibility and planning work, including the refurbishment of existing crematoria and the development of green alternatives to traditional methods of cremation.

Jessica graduated from the University of Lincoln with a Ba in Geography and developed an understanding of sustainability and environmental matters. Jessica later graduated from the London School of Economic with a MSc in Global Health Policy to further understand policy and its impact on communities, alongside her undergraduate knowledge. With a background including GIS analysis, evidence synthesis, and report-style writing, Jessica has begun her career with CDS to retain real-life experience by assisting with planning and feasibility to help develop cemeteries and crematoria for communities.

Cassie joined The CDS Group as Finance Manager in October 2024.  Cassie is CIMA part qualified and has over twenty years experience working within finance departments for small to large organisations.  Cassie plays a key role within The CDS Group, effectively and precisely managing the financial aspects of the business.

Tom is an experienced geo-environmental consultant with a strong background in data analysis and ground investigations. With an MSci in Geology from the University of Bristol, he specialises in environmental and groundwater risk assessments and site supervision. His expertise includes GIS, modelling, and regulatory compliance. Tom has also presented at academic conferences and contributed to published research in seismology.

Georgina joins The CDS Group with three years’ experience working in a multidisciplinary private practice. She has an MA in Landscape Architecture and a Professional Diploma in Garden Design & Horticulture. With a passion for design and planting, Georgina also gained a silver Royal Horticultural Society medal for her show garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live. She has designed a wide variety of landscapes and assists the team across all the RIBA work stages.

Alex is a planner with extensive experience across public and private sectors, having delivered residential, regeneration, and international consultancy projects. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, feasibility studies, spatial design, and GIS analysis, he adopts a creative, solutions-oriented approach to developing crematoria and cemeteries. With a Master’s in City and Regional Planning (MPLAN), Alex combines technical expertise with practical field experience to produce innovative, client-focused outcomes.

Ashley graduated from The University of the West of England with a 2:1 BSc (Hons) in Urban Planning and is currently completing a MSc in Planning and Urban Leadership. Ashley joined The CDS Group after 2 years in industry having worked in planning consultancy in the west of England and strategic land planning for national house builder in London. Gaining experience in project management and planning viability assessments at a variety of scales. Ashley joined the Planning Team at CDS in September 2025, assisting with the planning and management of projects including the extension of existing cemeteries and the development of new bereavement facilities.

Isaac holds a BA (Hons) in Human Geography and Planning from Leeds Beckett University. With a strong foundation in policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and environmental impact assessment, he brings valuable planning expertise to the team. At CDS, Isaac is gaining hands-on experience in planning and feasibility studies, supporting the development of cemeteries and crematoria that serve and strengthen communities. His commitment to practical, community-focused solutions ensures every project is approached with care and precision.

Lettie joined CDS as head of HR to keep all staff in-line, provide encouragement and to ensure all staff ate the correct food and enjoyed a daily walk whatever the weather.