Future First appoints Deborah Denis as Chief Executive Officer
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Deborah Denis as the new Chief Executive Officer of Future First.
Deborah brings over 20 years of leadership experience across the charity and public sectors, with a strong track record of delivering strategic growth, strengthening frontline services, influencing policy, and building high-performing teams. She joins Future First following her tenure as CEO of the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, where she led significant organisational growth - expanding income by 65%, increasing staffing capacity, and enhancing both service delivery and national impact in safeguarding children.
Deborah is a values-driven and highly respected leader. Her work has influenced national policy, strengthened cross-sector partnerships, and raised awareness of complex and sensitive issues at the highest levels, including government, media, and international forums. Her experience of growing organisations, influencing policy and improving outcomes for children and young people makes her well placed to lead Future First into its next phase.
Deborah’s commitment to Future First’s mission is deeply personal. Having grown up in a working-class family and experienced significant challenges in her early life, Deborah understands first-hand the difference that trusted adults and positive role models can make. . This lived experience underpins her belief in the importance of relatable role models and meaningful connections in helping young people broaden their horizons and realise their potential.
Speaking about her appointment, Deborah said:
“Future First’s mission resonates deeply with me. I know from my own life how powerful it can be when someone takes the time to show you a different possible future. I believe there is a significant opportunity to build on the organisation’s strong foundations by expanding its alumni network and forging even stronger partnerships with employers. Together, we can create more meaningful connections between young people and the workplace, helping students develop the confidence, networks, and aspirations they need to thrive. I am excited to lead Future First into its next phase of growth and impact, reaching more young people and creating lasting change in their futures.”
Deborah joins Future First at a pivotal moment. As young people face an increasingly complex transition from education into employment, her experience and commitment to creating opportunity will help the charity build on its 15-year expertise of working with state school alumni. With her leadership, we will continue to evolve our work, equipping young people with the employability skills, confidence and meaningful experiences of the world of work that build career readiness and help them take their first steps into employment. We look forward to welcoming Deborah and working together to accelerate Future First’s mission in the years ahead.
