Wolfson welcomes new Development Director and new Director of College Networks

Beginning on 27 June, the College welcomes Simon Crookall as its new Development Director.

Simon joins the College from the University of Oxford, where he was Head of Philanthropy at the Voltaire Foundation. Prior to that, he was Head of Development and Alumni at the University of Lincoln.

Simon’s appointment follows the College’s recent adoption of a new Masterplan. The Masterplan sets out an ambition to improve the current College estate, increase both accommodation and central facilities, and to move towards a more sustainable College.

Simon will lead the development and implementation of a new fundraising strategy for the College, which will include delivering on those exciting Masterplan objectives.

He has considerable experience as a fundraiser in both higher education and the arts. He has been General Director of Hawaii Opera Theatre, President and CEO of Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and Chief Executive of Royal Scottish National Orchestra, where he provided leadership for almost a decade.

“I am delighted to be joining Wolfson at such an exciting time,” says Simon. “As an alumnus of the University, it is good to have an opportunity to be able to contribute to the success and growth of this great College.”

A new College Networks Team

The College is equally delighted to announce that, from 1 June, Sian Cook, the College’s outgoing Development Director is to pioneer a new role as Director of College Networks – a unique approach amongst the colleges of Cambridge.

Sian has led the Alumni & Development Team since 2017. Formerly at National Museum Wales, she was also Development Director at National Museums Liverpool, the Royal Institute of British Architects, and Campaign Director at British Heart Foundation.

Sian brings considerable experience of developing community and international relations and will now lead the strategic direction of Wolfson’s networks and partnerships, to enhance the student experience, alumni relations, and the College’s intellectual and cultural life.

“With so many developments on the horizon, I’m honoured to be spearheading this innovative approach to engaging with our College communities,” says Sian.

“One of the principal successes of the last few years has been increasing engagement through Connect, our alumni portal, and the creation of new College networks such as the Interdisciplinary Research Hubs and the Enterprise Society.

“We’ve also enhanced existing interest groups, such as law and medicine and the Boat Club, all of which bring together Fellows, students, staff alumni, and other members, raising the College’s profile across the globe. We have a wonderful opportunity to open up the potential of these networks as well as to develop new partnerships. I can’t wait to build upon all the great work so far.”

Professor Jane Clarke, Wolfson College President, said:

“These are exciting times for the College, and I’m thrilled to welcome both Simon and Sian in their new posts. These changes will help us build even closer relationships with College members, enrich the student experience, and enhance the College’s already world-leading reputation. I’m looking forward to working closely with both Sian and Simon to deliver our vision for the College’s future.”