Chief Executive Officer

Danielle’s motivation stems from a deep belief that education is not only about academic success but about flourishing, purpose, and possibility. She sees schools as anchors in their communities, places that can transform lives, nurture identity, and help children and families to thrive.

As the Chief Executive of Cygnus Academies Trust, Danielle ensures that its vision, realising ambition for our children and young people, is lived out daily across its schools, nurseries, and community partnerships.

Her leadership is rooted in values, integrity, and social justice, shaped by her own lived experience and a lifelong commitment to equity and opportunity. Under her leadership, Cygnus has developed a distinctive culture where collaboration, citizenship, achievement, and sustainability guide every decision. She is passionate about leadership that is authentic, relational, and hopeful, and about creating systems where every child knows they matter and can succeed.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Daniel Terry is Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Cygnus Academies Trust, where he has spent nearly a decade shaping schools that are ambitious, inclusive, and unafraid to rethink what great education looks like. With a career spanning from teaching and school leadership to Ofsted Inspector, Daniel brings a rare depth of perspective. He’s seen every layer of the system and knows that transformation begins with people, not policy.

As a qualified Executive Coach, Daniel believes in the power of authentic leadership and the importance of developing others to lead with both courage and compassion. His work is rooted in the conviction that schools are the heart of their communities, places where children, families, and staff can thrive together.

From his early days in Croydon classrooms to his current role driving improvement and innovation across multiple schools, Daniel has never lost sight of his core mission: to ensure every child experiences an education that builds confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.

Now, as both a system leader and experienced practitioner, Daniel continues to challenge the status quo, championing schools that nurture well-being, grow leadership at every level, and create lasting change from within.

Chief Financial Officer

Jo Reynolds is Chief Financial Officer at Cygnus Academies Trust, where she leads on all aspects of financial strategy, governance, and performance across the Trust. A qualified accountant (AAT and ACCA), Jo brings a wealth of experience spanning both the education and public sectors, underpinned by a meticulous eye for detail and a steadfast commitment to financial integrity.

Before becoming CFO in 2024, Jo served as Finance Manager for Cygnus, following many years as a School Business Manager within Kent schools. Her career has been defined by building strong systems from the ground up, implementing robust financial controls, driving efficiency, and ensuring that every pound spent contributes directly to improving outcomes for children.

Known for her calm pragmatism and analytical precision, Jo combines financial rigour with a deep understanding of the realities of school life. She thrives on translating complex numbers into clear strategies that empower leaders, sustain growth, and secure the long-term stability of the Trust.

Above all, Jo believes that great financial stewardship isn’t just about balancing the books, it’s about creating the conditions in which schools can flourish.