The Prince and Princess of Wales’s new CEO has shared a personal update ahead of starting her role at The Royal Foundation.
Sarah Henwood will take the helm of the foundation next week, bringing with her three decades of experience in public service broadcasting.
The former Channel 5 President and UK Regional Lead at Paramount described her feelings about joining Prince William and Catherine on LinkedIn as filled with “awe, excitement and a fresh energy.”
Mrs Henwood reflected on her career transition by stating: “But now it’s time for something completely different.”
Prince William and Princess of Wales’s new CEO confirms personal update ahead of major role
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LINKEDIN: SARAH ROSE / GETTY
She added that she would “take up the reins of The Royal Foundation in February”, ready to contribute to the team’s ongoing efforts.
In a personal update, Mrs Henwood announced that she has opted to change her professional name from Sarah Rose ahead of her new position.
She explained: “And while I’m embracing change and joining a new network, I am completing this rebrand of sorts by updating my name.
“Rose was not my maiden name, so it’s time to become a Henwood, like my husband and children.
Sarah Henwood was the President of Channel 5
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GETTY“So you will find me as Sarah Henwood once I start the new role. It will take me a while to get used to, but it feels the right time to be making the change. Next episode starts in one week.”
In her new role, Mrs Henwood will take charge of several initiatives that hold deep personal significance for the royal couple.
Prince William’s Homewards campaign, which aims to eliminate homelessness permanently, falls under her remit, alongside the Centre for Early Childhood, Catherine’s initiative focused on creating better outcomes for future generations.
The foundation’s portfolio extends further still, encompassing United for Wildlife’s efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and the Community Impact programme.
Mrs Henwood pledged to use LinkedIn as a platform for updates, noting: “I will use this platform going forward to shine a light on some of the remarkable initiatives the Foundation is working on for the Prince and Princess of Wales.”
The incoming chief executive arrives during a period of change at Kensington Palace.
Earlier this month, Liza Ravenscroft joined the press office team.
The communications specialist, known for supporting high-profile figures during challenging periods, will focus on routine media relations rather than crisis management, according to the Palace.
Officials emphasised that staff in royal communications roles come from diverse professional backgrounds.
Earlier this month, Liza Ravenscroft joined the press office team
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LINKEDIN: LIZA RAVENSCROFT
When Mrs Henwood’s appointment was announced last September, the Prince and Princess of Wales expressed their enthusiasm for the new hire: “We are looking forward to welcoming Sarah to The Royal Foundation and to working with her on some of the issues which are closest to our hearts.”
The royal couple also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing chief executive Amanda Berry, who has steered the foundation since 2022 following two decades at BAFTA: “We are hugely grateful to Amanda for her exceptional leadership over the past three years.”
Ms Berry will maintain her connection to the foundation through a newly established position as Global Partnerships Ambassador.
Mrs Henwood expressed her commitment to the role, stating at the time: “I am honoured to be joining The Royal Foundation and am excited by the ambition it has for the future.”