Tokunbo Ajasa-Oluwa, Chief Executive Officer, has announced that he is stepping away from the charity due to personal family matters after five and a half years. Tokunbo joined Career Ready in January 2020 following a role as CEO of the Foyer Federation and a career in journalism and social entrepreneurship.
The search for a new Chief Executive Officer will be led by the Board of Trustees, commencing in Spring 2026. In the interim, the charity will be led by Anne Wexelstein (Director for Scotland) and Sian Robertson (Director of Programme & Partnerships, England) as Co-CEOs.
“During his time as CEO, Tokunbo has helped Career Ready navigate a challenging landscape while ensuring that a growing number of young people are experiencing the deep, life-changing impact of a mentor and a paid internship. We would like to thank Tokunbo for his vision and deep passion for empowering young people and unlocking their potential. The charity’s five-year strategy and its excellent, committed team ensures that the organisation is equipped to deliver sustainable, long-term impact for more young people by connecting them with employers.”
James Bardrick, Chair of Trustees, Career Ready
“It’s been a privilege to lead an organisation whose mission I care deeply about. Driving social mobility and supporting young people to realise their power and potential have been key principles throughout my professional career. Moving on has not been an easy decision, and I have every confidence that the organisation is well positioned to grow and deliver even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Tokunbo Ajasa-Oluwa
About Career Ready
Career Ready is a social mobility charity that works in partnership with employers to deliver a programme of a paid internship and mentor from a single organisation, along with skills masterclasses and workplace visits, for young people aged 16-18.
To find out more contact tom.rippon@careerready.org.uk, Head of Communications.
