Meet The Team

Our Team

Dr Rupert Birtwistle

BA (Hons) MA ACIfA PhD
Director of Commercial Archaeology

Rupert co-founded Past to Present Archaeology in 2019. He holds a Master’s in Palaeolithic Archaeology and Human Origins from the University of Southampton and recently completed a PhD at the University of Leicester, focusing on the Lower to Middle Palaeolithic transition in Azerbaijan. With specialist expertise in lithic analysis, Rupert has extensive knowledge of prehistoric archaeology across Britain, Europe, and the Caucasus, as well as regional experience in the East Midlands and East Anglia. His academic background and passion for early prehistory continue to shape Past to Present Archaeology’s research-driven approach to commercial and community archaeology.

Dr Emma Birtwistle

BSc (Hons) MSc PhD
Associate Director and Human Osteologist

Emma is an Associate Director and Human Osteologist at Past to Present Archaeology, having joined the company in 2021. She earned her MSc in Human Osteology and Funerary Archaeology from the University of Sheffield in 2014, followed by a PhD focusing on an archaeothanatological approach to late Anglo-Saxon burials. Dr Green has also reassessed a skeletal collection at Nottingham Castle Museum. She plays a key role in P2P’s educational and community outreach, sharing her expertise in human remains analysis with students and the public. Alongside her research and outreach work, Emma contributes to heritage consultancy projects, advising on burial archaeology and ethical considerations.

Carl Hayward

BA (Hons)
Business Improvement Specialist

Carl Hayward is a qualified archaeologist with a BA (Hons) in Archaeology and a specialist in Business Improvement and Operational Excellence. He has advised senior leadership teams on process and business improvements, successfully eliminating over £15 million in unnecessary costs and streamlining operations using Lean methodologies. Carl engages workforces to identify improvement opportunities while guiding senior teams in prioritising strategic changes. His passion for history, archaeology, and experiencing different cultures continues to shape his approach to problem-solving and organisational development.

Iain Pringle

BA (Hons) MA
Project Manager & Geophysics Specialist

Iain is a geophysics specialist and experienced project manager with over a decade in commercial archaeology. He has led surveys across varied landscapes, using advanced remote sensing to evaluate archaeological potential. Iain combines technical expertise with strong project management skills to ensure efficient planning, delivery, and reporting on complex investigations. He plays a key role in expanding P2P’s geophysical services, providing high-quality data for heritage and development projects. Iain also develops training programmes and integrates emerging technologies to improve survey accuracy and interpretation.

Hazel

BA (Hons) MSc
Heritage and Community officer

Hazel is a Heritage professional with over six years’ experience in commercial archaeology. She has managed and supervised excavations for both large and small-scale infrastructure projects across the UK. With her passion for historic buildings and an MSc in Historic Conservation, she was the natural choice to develop P2P’s heritage services. Hazel oversees a range of heritage projects, including desk-based assessments and full historic building recordings, ensuring the highest standards of research and preservation. She also plays a key role in mentoring junior archaeologists and promoting best practices in heritage management.

Callum

BA (Hons)
Project Supervisor & Aerial Survey Specialist

Callum has been involved in archaeology since 2016 and brings nine years of experience, including supervising on large infrastructure projects. He is highly organised and supports field teams with both practical expertise and leadership. Academically, his focus is Romano-British archaeology, with a dissertation on Roman coloniae in the UK. Callum is particularly skilled in aerial drone photography, photogrammetry, and QGIS, enhancing site recording and interpretation. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling, football, and music, and contributes a well-rounded perspective to every project he undertakes.

Eleanor

Project Supervisor

Eleanor is a valued member of our team who now leads our community engagement programmes. With six years of field archaeology and supervisory experience gained after graduating from the University of Chester, she brings a strong foundation in practical fieldwork and public outreach. Although she has since pursued a career in teaching, Eleanor continues to support Past to Present Archaeology’s educational and community-focused initiatives. Her approachable and grounded style makes her a natural at engaging diverse audiences. Outside of archaeology, she enjoys step aerobics and channelling her creativity through jewellery making.

Jedlee

Senior Archaeologist & Training Lead

Jedlee is one of Past to Present Archaeology’s most experienced team members, having worked continuously in the field since 2004. His extensive career spans a wide range of archaeological periods and site types—from Palaeolithic flint scatters to medieval structures—across the UK. With a reputation for depth of knowledge and practical skill, Jed serves as a core project leader and mentor within the company. He also oversees the training and development of new recruits, ensuring high standards on every project. Jed’s dedication and versatility make him an invaluable asset to both fieldwork and team progression.

Josh

BA (Hons)
Senior Archaeologist

Josh joined Past to Present Archaeology in 2022 and has quickly progressed to the role of Senior Archaeologist. Passionate and driven, he brings enthusiasm and a strong academic focus to the team. He is preparing to begin an MA in Classical Archaeology and Ancient Greek, and is also learning Arabic, reflecting his growing interest in the archaeology of Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. Having spent much of his childhood in Greece, Josh offers valuable cultural insight into Mediterranean archaeology. Outside of work, he enjoys gaming, cat videos, and has a love for Harley Davidsons.

Helena

BA
Marketing Assistant

Helena is currently a marketing student at Nottingham Trent University, where she specialises in digital marketing. Beyond her academic pursuits, Helena has a diverse range of interests. In her free time, she delights in cooking, exploring new destinations through travel, practicing yoga for both physical and mental well-being, and enjoying leisurely walks with her Hungarian Viszla puppy.