Speech Day Guest Speaker Announced: Dr Alexandra Leeper

We are delighted to announce that our guest speaker for Speech Day on Wednesday 8 July will be Dr Alexandra Leeper, a former St Mary’s pupil and Head Girl (2008–2009).

Dr Leeper is the CEO of the Iceland Ocean Cluster and Lead of the Global Ecosystem of Blue Nove Ventures. A scientist, entrepreneur and international leader in the blue and circular economies, she is passionate about the sustainable use of ocean resources and creating positive impact through innovation and collaboration.

Her career has taken her across the world, working in universities, consultancies and at sea. With a background in marine resources, Dr Leeper completed an industrial doctorate in aquaculture and the circular economy in partnership with Matís – Food and Biotech Iceland, graduating from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences in 2021.

Today, her work focuses on sustainable value creation in the blue economy and supporting the development of ocean clusters globally. She is also committed to championing women in the startup sector and is the founder of Hringvarmi, a circular-economy venture that uses waste heat for controlled-environment food production.

Reflecting on her time at St Mary’s, Dr Leeper recalls many happy memories of the school and its community, which she believes provided the foundation for both her professional success and the lifelong friendships she continues to value today.

We are thrilled to welcome Dr Leeper back to St Mary’s and look forward to hearing her inspiring insights and experiences at Speech Day.