Cllr Denise Hyland has lived in the Royal Borough of Greenwich all her working life. Denise spent her career teaching English & Drama in the Borough’s schools, working in youth centres and adult education. She was honoured to be a BAFTA judge for two years running.

After finishing teaching Denise set up an education consultancy with colleagues, writing teaching materials, career guides, mentoring students and advising English departments across London on raising attainment. Denise also spent time working on a Performing Arts Young Apprenticeship Programme, assisting students with their work experience at top venues in London, including the Royal Albert Hall, Hackney Empire, English National Opera, English National Ballet and the Gate Theatre.

Denise became a Labour Councillor in 2006. She was elected as a member of the Council’s Executive from 2007 to date. Over the years her portfolios covered Economy, Enterprise, Skills, Apprenticeships, Finance, Planning, Regeneration, Transport, Digital and Smart Cities.

In 2014 she was elected as the first woman Leader of the Council, a role she performed until 2018.

In 2020-2022 Denise was appointed Deputy Mayor and then Mayor of Royal Borough of Greenwich. She is thrilled to be one of the Council’s representatives at Woolwich Creative District Trust.