Meet our DSA Team
Behind all our products is a global team, with over 25 years’ experience combined.
As Texthelp’s dedicated DSA team, we’re passionate about the work we do and about getting essential technology into the hands of students who need it most. We’ve created a unique culture, living and working by a set of values that shape how we behave and the technology we create. We’re with you every step of the way on the DSA journey.
A little bit about us
Rick Bell, Head of Education, Texthelp Group
Rick is committed to making sure that all students have the right tools and support they need to learn with confidence. In his current role, Rick leads the Texthelp Education team to help students around the world achieve their full potential. This includes bringing a wide choice of innovative, inclusive technologies to students who are eligible for the Disabled Students’ Allowance. He is also Chair of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA), working with the Board and Members to deliver the aims of BATA. This includes campaigning on behalf of those needing Assistive Technology (AT) and driving awareness of the benefits of AT.
Nicole Michael, Head of DSA
Nicole has been working for Texthelp for over five years and is passionate about her role leading the DSA strategy within the company, especially following the recent acquisition of the Lingit Group bringing Claro and LexAble products into the Texthelp Group. Nicole works with the team supporting students across the UK. Helping them to understand and be understood by providing advice on assistive technology software. Not only is she involved in the daily goings on of DSA but also in the wider eco- system of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA).
Katri Lassinen Walker, Product Manager
Katri has an MSc in Economics from Turku School of Economics and Business Administration in Finland. She came to the UK for the summer after spending a university term in Japan, and 25 years later, she is still here! She speaks six languages: Finnish, Swedish, English, German, Spanish and Japanese. She joined LexAble in 2019 and is a product manager for Global AutoCorrect, Global Tasks and ClaroRead products.
Stuart Marsden, Product Manager
Stuart is Product Manager for Claro Software. He has a background of two decades in innovation and design in assistive technology, healthcare and medical devices. Stuart is a Chartered Engineer and member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology. You’ll see him demonstrating Writing Helper, our latest innovative product that reduces stress and overwhelm for students composing academic writing.
Bob Preston, Business Development Director
Bob has almost 20 years experience within the Assistive Technology industry. As Business Development Director for LexAble, it’s Bob’s responsibility to identify new opportunities and markets for the business to expand into. This suits him well as he is an innovative thinker and loves meeting new people on his travels around the country.
Louise Martini, Product Specialist
Louise has been working for Texthelp for almost a year. Her focus has primarily been on Read&Write and Equatio. She is passionate about supporting students across the UK by providing information and training on software to DSA assessors and trainers.
Philip Burgin, Product Specialist
Philip has a wealth of experience as a software trainer, he spent 10 years with one of the largest training providers in the sector. Prior to becoming a trainer, he worked for a DSA equipment supplier. He has a passion for helping people and encouraging them to succeed. As a dyslexic person himself, Philip uses his personal experiences to help people achieve their goals.