Rowena Hackwood appointed as Volleyball England’s new Independent Chair

A highly experienced Chief Executive within the education sector, Rowena currently leads a multi-academy trust and brings significant governance expertise through her extensive Board work across both education and sport. She also serves as Chair of the East Midlands Netball Association. 

Rowena will begin a phased introduction to the role in the coming weeks and will attend her first Volleyball England Board meeting on 29th November. 

Her appointment follows a comprehensive, transparent recruitment process led by Volleyball England’s Nominations Committee and aligned fully with the organisation’s Articles of Association.  

Acting Chair, Vice Chair, and Nominations Committee Chair Alison Shipway, reflecting on the process, said it “was carried out with diligence, integrity, and openness,” and underpinned by “thoughtful evaluation, and a commitment to fairness and inclusivity.”  

She added: “It has been my privilege to serve in an acting capacity, and I am delighted to welcome Rowena as our new Chair. 

“She brings exceptional leadership and vision that will guide Volleyball England into its next chapter. We are confident that under Rowena’s stewardship, we will continue to build on the strong foundation we’ve established together.” 

Rowena shared her excitement about the role and said: “I am honoured to be appointed as Chair of Volleyball England. 

“I’m looking forward to working with the Board, staff and wider community to grow the sport, strengthen its foundations and champion inclusivity and excellence at every level.” 

Volleyball England Chief Executive Officer Charlie Ford also welcomed the appointment, emphasising Rowena’s experience as a crucial asset to the sport’s future growth. 

“I’m really looking forward to working closely with Rowena as she steps into the role of Independent Chair,” he said. “Her extensive leadership and governance experience will be a huge asset as we continue to develop and grow the sport across the country.” 

Ford also expressed his gratitude to Alison Shipway for her leadership since the AGM, acknowledging her “outstanding support” and “dedication and steady leadership during the transition period.”