Don Wry is CEO and accounting officer at Hearts Academy Trust, with more than 18 years’ experience across primary and secondary education. He has led schools in diverse contexts across London and Essex, from inner-city to rural communities, many serving high levels of disadvantage and pupils with English as an Additional Language. Don is driven by high expectations, inclusive practice, and strong community engagement, with a proven track record of raising standards and strengthening curriculum, teaching, and assessment. He contributes to system leadership through roles with Anglia Ruskin University and the Essex Schools Forum and also serves as an evidence lead in education (ELE) for the Essex Research School.