Catriona Sutherland-Hawes

Cat is a Senior Consultant at RSAcademics in both the Consultancy Services and Appointments teams. Specialising in admissions strategy and stakeholder engagement, she works with schools to refine admissions processes, enhance parent experience and ensure the department is fully integrated into school life. 

Since joining RSAcademics in 2023, Cat has brought deep sector knowledge and a strategic mindset to her consultancy work. She is known for her ability to lead change, communicate effectively across stakeholder groups and provide clear, practical advice. 

Cat has worked on many senior marketing and admissions appointments and brings a thoughtful understanding of how these roles shape a school’s identity. Her advice helps schools articulate the leadership qualities they need and prepare for constructive conversations with candidates. She supports panels with insight that helps them distinguish between technical skill and deeper leadership potential. 

Cat began her career in public service, working as Chief of Staff to several MPs before joining the household of the then Prince of Wales at St James’s Palace. She later moved into education, serving as Director of Admissions at Latymer Upper School, where she developed a focused strategy for admissions and bursary support. After 14 years, she joined Wycombe Abbey as Director of Admissions, where she further refined techniques and processes that positioned admissions as a strategic function. 

Cat is a former Governor of a London prep and primary school and currently serves as a Governor at Frensham Heights School. She helps schools build admissions strategies that are inclusive, effective and aligned with their values.