ByProspectus

Welcome to our leadership spotlight series, where we ask each leader 10 quick-fire questions so that we can give a little insight into the person behind a leadership role.

I have a longstanding career in the cultural, voluntary and public sectors, with nearly 20 years in management positions and over a decade in CEO roles. As Chief Executive of Wikimedia UK since October 2015, I’ve led the development of a new strategy focused on eradicating inequality and bias on Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia projects. Wikimedia UK is the national charity for the global Wikimedia open knowledge movement, working with partners from the cultural and education sectors to unlock content, develop new ways of engaging with the public and enable learners to benefit fully from the educational potential of the Wikimedia projects. We also have a strategic focus on the development of information literacy skills in an era of misinformation, and the creation of a legislative framework that enables open knowledge to flourish.

Prior to joining Wikimedia UK I was the Director and Chief Executive of literature organisation Apples and Snakes, where I led a team of 17 in the delivery of an extensive national programme including live events, artist development and participation and outreach reaching 30,000 children and young people every year. Previous leadership roles include Head of Outreach and Public Engagement at the House of Lords, Director of Creative Partnerships London West at Arts Council England, and National Co-ordinator for Refugee Week – a partnership project hosted by the Refugee Council.

What was your first job?

Centre Assistant at a small arts centre.

What is the best piece of leadership advice you’ve been given?

Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good.

What or who is your most admired purpose-led organisation or person?

I admire lots of organisations and people. Nick Poole, Chief Executive of CILIP, is ridiculously strategic and eloquent.

What do you do to help ensure good mental health?

My mental health is pretty resilient but it’s important for me to get out into nature. Particularly trees.

What is the most impactful leadership decision you’ve made?

To start with a blank slate, strategy wise, in my current organisation, rather than tweaking the existing strategy.

If you needed some sound advice, who would you call?

The Chair of my Board of Trustees.

What is your dream job? (Apart from your current one!)

Professional singer.

Favourite place to eat?

At home.

Why are you in the purpose-led sector?

I’ve always wanted to do something valuable with my life, and the idea of working for an organisation that existed to make money was never appealing.

What are you currently watching or reading?

I’m rewatching Sherlock (escapist fun) and reading Devorgilla Days by Kathleen Hart.

Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us, Lucy.

If you would like to learn more about our work in the sector or would like to be featured in our series, you can contact us here.

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