The Prince and Princess of Wales have officially welcomed Sarah Henwood as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Royal Foundation, marking a significant leadership transition for the charitable organization they co-founded. Announced in September 2025 and effective from February 2026, Henwood’s appointment follows the departure of Amanda Berry CBE, who led the Foundation since 2022 after two decades at BAFTA. Berry transitions to a newly created role as Global Partnerships Ambassador, ensuring continuity while allowing fresh perspectives to guide the Foundation’s ambitious agenda.

Sarah Henwood brings over 30 years of experience in public service broadcasting to the position. Most recently, she served as President of Channel 5 and UK Regional Lead at Paramount, where she oversaw strategic direction, content innovation, and regional operations. Her career spans senior roles in media, including leadership at major broadcasters, giving her deep expertise in communications, stakeholder engagement, and driving impactful initiatives. Henwood’s background positions her well to amplify the Foundation’s work on pressing issues: Prince William’s Homewards campaign to end homelessness for good, and the Princess of Wales’s Centre for Early Childhood, dedicated to shaping healthier futures for the next generation.

In a LinkedIn post shared just days before starting, Henwood expressed profound enthusiasm: “I take up the reins of The Royal Foundation in February with awe, excitement and a fresh energy to play my part in the brilliant and important work the team are already doing.” She also announced a personal rebrand, opting to use Sarah Henwood professionally instead of Sarah Rose, her previously known name online. “It will take me a while to get used to, but it feels the right time to be making the change,” she wrote, signaling a deliberate shift as she steps into this high-profile role. Henwood further committed to greater visibility, stating she plans to use platforms like LinkedIn “to shine a light on some of the remarkable initiatives the Foundation is working on for the Prince and Princess of Wales.”

The announcement reflects the Foundation’s evolution since its inception in 2009. Initially encompassing multiple causes, it refocused after the 2019 separation of William and Harry’s patronages, concentrating on William and Catherine’s priorities: homelessness, early childhood development, mental health, and environmental conservation. Homewards has gained momentum with pilot programs in six UK locations, aiming to demonstrate that homelessness can be prevented and ended through systemic change. The Centre for Early Childhood advances research and policy to support children’s formative years, emphasizing prevention over intervention.

Henwood succeeds Amanda Berry, whose tenure saw strengthened partnerships and expanded impact. Berry’s new ambassador role will leverage her BAFTA-honed networks in media and entertainment to forge global collaborations, particularly in storytelling and awareness campaigns. The seamless handover underscores the Foundation’s stability amid change, with William and Catherine expressing gratitude: “We are looking forward to welcoming Sarah to The Royal Foundation and to working with her on some of the issues which are closest to our hearts. We are hugely grateful to Amanda for her exceptional leadership over the past three years and are pleased she will continue to work with us in her new role as Global Partnerships Ambassador.”

Henwood’s media expertise could prove transformative. The Foundation has occasionally faced criticism for limited digital presence; her pledge to highlight initiatives suggests a potential increase in visibility. This aligns with broader royal efforts to modernize communications while maintaining dignity. Her broadcasting roots may enhance advocacy through compelling narratives, especially for sensitive topics like homelessness and early trauma.

Public and media reaction has been largely positive. Observers praise the choice of a seasoned executive with proven leadership in dynamic sectors. Henwood’s enthusiasm and strategic rebrand signal proactive energy, potentially injecting vitality into the Foundation’s outreach. Some speculate this move supports the Waleses’ long-term vision as they prepare for future reigns—William as king, Catherine as queen consort—where charitable impact will remain central.

The appointment occurs during a period of royal recalibration. With King Charles’s health challenges and ongoing family dynamics, William and Catherine increasingly step into prominent roles. The Foundation serves as their primary vehicle for philanthropy, allowing focused advocacy on causes close to their hearts. Henwood’s arrival strengthens this platform, bringing operational expertise to scale initiatives.

As she prepares to lead, Henwood inherits a committed team and ambitious portfolio. Her first months will likely involve deepening partnerships, evaluating progress on Homewards pilots, and advancing the Centre for Early Childhood’s research agenda. With her media savvy, expect more accessible storytelling to engage wider audiences.

This leadership change represents evolution rather than disruption. The Royal Foundation, under William and Catherine’s guidance, continues to evolve as a force for positive change. Sarah Henwood’s appointment, backed by her experience and evident passion, promises to build on past successes while embracing new opportunities. As she steps into the role, the Foundation—and the causes it champions—stand poised for continued impact.