Rowena Hackwood

I am passionate about educational outcomes for every child in the EMH region, having worked throughout our region over the last 4 years. From Nottingham originally, with roots in South Yorkshire, I have a personal connection with our shared educational mission. I describe myself as 'public-hearted and business-minded'.

My professional experience leading Astrea's 26 schools (and previously leading DRET's 34) has focused on working in challenging circumstances to effect transformation at scale, and serve communities that have had the poorest educational deal, often for generations. This requires grit, a long-term perspective, curation of the best ideas, and drawing together and investing in the best talent.

I am an experienced advisor to public sector decision-makers at regional and national/governmental level, as well as to a range of private sector partners (Renaissance, gov.net). I have served on DfE advisory panels, Ministerial Reference Groups, the CST Large Trusts group and the Queen St Group. I champion diverse voices, especially female MAT CEOs, and am proud to coach and mentor five CEOs on their leadership journeys.

If elected, I will offer balanced advice, take a strategic system-wide but community-based view on future system development, and challenge our region to be collaborative, not competitive.