Mary Curnock Cook

Mary Curnock Cook is a prominent figure in the education sector, known for her role as the Chief Executive of the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) from January 2010 until April 2017. Under her leadership, UCAS played a pivotal role in shaping the admissions process for higher education in the UK.

Early Career and Education

Before joining UCAS, Curnock Cook served as the Director of Qualifications and Skills at the Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency (QCDA), where she was instrumental in qualifications policy and development, particularly for the 14-19 education reform. She also held various executive positions across sectors including hospitality, food, and biotechnology. Notably, she was Chief Executive of the British Institute of Innkeeping from 1994 to 2001 and has been involved with several educational organizations as a non-executive director and trustee.123

Curnock Cook holds an MSc in General Management from London Business School. Her contributions to education have been recognized with an OBE in 2000 and a CBE in 2020 for her services to further and higher education.234

Contributions to Education

During her tenure at UCAS, Curnock Cook focused on improving access to higher education and enhancing the overall student experience. She emphasized the importance of providing information and support to prospective students, ensuring they could make informed choices about their educational paths. Her leadership was marked by a commitment to innovation within the admissions process.15

In addition to her role at UCAS, she has held various influential positions, including Chair of the Dyson Institute and Pearson Education Ltd., as well as serving on boards for organizations such as the Student Loans Company and the Higher Education Policy Institute. She is also known for her advocacy work aimed at supporting underrepresented groups in higher education.234

Personal Life

Mary Curnock Cook resides in West London with her three adult children. She has expressed a strong belief in making higher education accessible to all, particularly those who may not follow traditional educational routes. Her own educational journey began later in life, which informs her passion for inclusive education.15