A New Chapter at The OLLIE Foundation

The OLLIE Foundation is pleased to share that Stuart Falconer, one of our co-founders, has stepped into the role of Interim CEO. Having co-founded OLLIE with Chris and Jane, he cares deeply about the people and communities we serve and brings a steadiness to the Foundation. You can find out more about Stuart on our Founders and Trustees page.

As he takes on this interim position, Stuart wants to recognise everyone who has helped make OLLIE what it is today—our staff, trustees, volunteers, trainers, partners, and community. OLLIE’s strong, supportive team remains firmly in place.

Chris Sibley, Co-Founder of The OLLIE Foundation, has made an exceptional contribution to the charity. When he returned to OLLIE as Head of Business Engagement and Donations in autumn 2023, his energy, creativity and dedication made an immense impact. Over 18 months, Chris strengthened community engagement, boosted fundraising, and built valuable partnerships that will support OLLIE long into the future.

Chris stepped down from his full time role in August 25, and we would like to express our sincere thanks to him for his hard work, commitment, and belief in OLLIE’s mission. We are delighted that Chris will continue to remain close to the charity in his capacity as Co-Founder, and we look forward to continuing our work together.

Maria Nastri – CYP Well-being & Suicide Prevention Coordinator

Maria has worked in Children’s Mental Health in Hertfordshire across Health and Social Care for over 20 years commissioning, designing and delivering services. During this time Maria managed and developed Safe Space Hertfordshire providing counselling and art therapy in schools across the county and has previously served as Transformation Manager for Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CYPMHS) in Hertfordshire taking on a more strategic role. Maria’s compassionate approach and commitment to prevention align strongly with OLLIE’s mission, and we are thrilled to have her with us.

Jo Cakmak – Communications Lead

Jo joined OLLIE over a year ago, following more than 25 years of experience in education as a dedicated and accomplished teacher. Jo fulfilled many different roles throughout her career including being on the Senior Leadership Team as Senior Teacher, acting Assistant Head, subject leader for both core and foundation subjects and leading the School Council. Jo brings a deep understanding of the complex and sensitive dynamics within schools and education settings. She is also a trained Mental Health First Aider in the workplace and an experienced trainer and mentor, dedicated to supporting others with both skill and compassion. With many transferable skills from a career in education, we are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of the OLLIE family.

Vicky Gutteridge – Project Manager (Maternity Cover)

We’re pleased to welcome Vicky back to The OLLIE Foundation as she steps in to cover Katie’s maternity leave. Already familiar to many in our community, Vicky brings a strong commitment to suicide prevention and community wellbeing. She is an experienced trainer and has lead bereavement cafés, creating safe spaces for people coping with loss. Vicky cares deeply about listening to lived experience and making sure community voices shape the work we do.

We are delighted to share some joyful news with you. Our wonderful colleague Katie Hughes welcomed a beautiful baby boy in October, and both mum and baby are doing well. We are so happy for Katie and her growing family at this special time.

Katie has now begun her maternity leave and we know you’ll join us in wishing her a peaceful, love-filled time ahead as she enjoys time with her little one. Her warmth, commitment and care are valued by so many across the OLLIE community, and we look forward to welcoming her back when the time is right for her.

During Katie’s leave, Vicky will be stepping in to support her role. Please join us in sending Katie and her family our very best wishes.