Education Trust appoints new CEO

The David Ross Education Trust has announced the appointment of its new CEO, Rowena Hackwood.

Hackwood has experience in leading a number of high-profile organisations across the public, not-for-profit and private sectors.

Over recent years, this has focused more extensively on the education sector as Rowena has mentored CEOs of growing MATs, sat as a Trustee on another large academy trust and has been a director of Education Support Services.

David Ross, chairman, said: “Throughout the recruitment process it was evident that Rowena has a strong values base that has run throughout her public service career. She is passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

“She also impressed the Trustees and I by demonstrating her understanding of organisational leadership and her strong business acumen.

“Rowena was able to show her ability and commitment to building outstanding teams, drawing the best out of her colleagues so that we are in the strongest position to focus on, and achieve, our collective goals.”

Hackwood also commented: “This is an exciting time to join DRET and shape the Trust’s journey towards providing an outstanding education for every child in our network. We have some solid foundations to build on, and I am looking forward to working with the trust’s senior team to deliver on this commitment.”

The Trust’s new CEO will start working with the trust in June.