After 20 years of dedicated service, Dr Vanessa Ogden CBE will step down as CEO of Mulberry Schools Trust at the end of this term.
Vanessa’s leadership has been defined by a deep commitment to young people, to inclusive excellence, and to the communities our schools serve. Under her guidance, the Trust has grown in strength and purpose, always rooted in the belief in outstanding achievement for all. Her work has created lasting opportunities for students and strengthened a values-driven culture across the Trust.
Jane Farrell, Chair of Mulberry Schools Trust Board said:
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr Vanessa Ogden for her outstanding leadership and dedication over the past 20 years. Under her vision and commitment, the Mulberry Schools Trust has grown from strength to strength – building new schools, pioneering innovative programmes and partnerships and establishing a reputation nationally for excellence, inclusion, and social justice. Her contribution has been transformational, shaping the lives of countless young people and ensuring that Mulberry’s values of aspiration, equality and community are at the heart of everything we do. The Trust is in an exceptionally strong position, with a talented senior team and a clear moral purpose. We look forward with confidence to the next chapter of Mulberry’s development, building on the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.”
Vanessa will take up a new role as Regional Director for London at the Department for Education, continuing her contribution to education at a national level. While we are sad to see her go, we are immensely proud of her achievements and wish her every success as she takes on her new role.
From 1st April, Alice Ward will take on the role of Interim CEO. Having worked alongside Vanessa for over 16 years, and currently serving as Executive Director of Secondary Education, Alice brings deep experience, a strong track record in school improvement, and a shared commitment to Mulberry’s values.
We are deeply grateful to Vanessa for her vision, transformational leadership and for her lasting impact across Mulberry Schools Trust in changing the lives of thousands of students.
