E22- Hetti Barkworth-Nanton CBE

Trigger warning- This episode contains discussions of suicide and domestic violence. If you’re affected by these topics or need someone to talk to, please reach out for support. You can contact Samaritans at 116 123 or Refuge UK at 0808 2000 247. You're not alone.

Hetti became Chair of Refuge’s Board of Trustees on 1st June 2020. Hetti has a career spanning British Airways, Centrica, BT and Vodafone, leading financial, commercial and transformational change, often enabled by leading edge technology. She became the CEO of Ploughshare Innovations in April 2020 and is renowned for leading cultural and commercial transformation, and her highly creative, collaborative and engaging approach with teams and partners. She is also a recognised champion for diversity, equality, and inclusion. 

Hetti was recognised in the New Year's Honours 2024 list, receiving a CBE for her services to people affected by domestic abuse and domestic homicide. Hetti has been an active campaigner raising awareness about domestic abuse and the criminal justice system since her best friend, Joanna Simpson, was killed by her estranged husband. Hetti is the founder and former Chair of the Joanna Simpson Foundation and was previously a Pioneer at Safe Lives. In October 2024, she was awarded a Pride of Britain Special Recognition Award, alongside her co-founder of the Joanna Simpson Foundation, Diana Parkes CBE for their service in transforming the care, support and protection of children affected by domestic abuse and homicide. 

As CEO of an organisation which is on a high growth trajectory, and Chair of Refuge which is going through transformational change whilst seeing ever increasing demand for services, Hetti focuses her spare time enjoying long walks in the countryside with her family and the dogs. 

Listen to find out how Hetti has found success in different aspects of her life, and what she would put in the guide...