Judy graduated with a degree in Chemistry and began her career working in the pharmaceutical industry, before moving into the construction sector, where she became MD of a leading regional building contractor. Judy combined her business career with various public service appointments, mainly focussed on helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Judy served for nine years as a Governor of Plumpton Agricultural College and three years as Chair.

Judy was also a founder Trustee of the Sussex Community Foundation. Judy lives in Surrey, is now retired from business and spends her time with her two grown up children, her grandson, her Golden Retriever and her husband.