Bruntwood family devastated by loss of Kate Vokes and son in skiing accident
Tributes have been paid across the region’s business community and from senior leaders following the shocking death of Kate Vokes and her son Archie following an avalanche in the French Alps.
The sister of Bruntwood SciTech chief executive Chris Oglesby, she was a director of Bruntwood and the chair of the Oglesby Charitable Trust, established by her late father Michael Oglesby, who died in 2019.
In his biography Michael Oglesby described how Kate joined the family business as HR director in 2010 to work alongside her brother. “I was therefore delighted that they both accepted their relative position; their working relationship is good and their brother-sister bond is deep and heartfelt. Today, Kate is very much making her own independent mark in Manchester as an outstanding businesswoman, as well as being responsible for the company’s brand and cultural activities.”
In a brief statement Bruntwood said: “We’re heartbroken to share the tragic sudden loss of Kate Vokes & her son Archie. As Oglesby Charitable Trust Chair, our Non-Executive Director & sister of our CEO, Kate was loved & respected by so many. We will miss them terribly. The family kindly ask for privacy at this time.”
Kate Vokes
Former Lord Mayor of Manchester, Carl Austin-Behan, said: “Absolutely shocked, heartbroken and devastated. Kate Vokes and her son Archie were both so beautiful, Kate was involved in so many organisations that have changed so many peoples lives – I am lost for words, my heart goes out to the family, friends and all who knew them both.”
James Torry, founder of animation studio DoodleDo, which completed several projects with her, said: “Totally devasted. Kate was one of the most wonderful souls you could have ever met.”
Adam Farricker, chief executive of HideOut Youth Zone said: “Every now & then you meet someone that extra special that has a genuine impact on your outlook both professionally & personally. Kate Vokes was one of those unique people. Absolutely devasted to hear this news. Grateful to have known you & for all the support over the years.”
Young Manchester, one of the charities supported by Kate in her capacity at the Oglesby Charitable Trust said: “We are heartbroken to hear of the sudden death of our friend and former Board member Kate Vokes and her son Archie. We were lucky to work and laugh with her, a remarkable woman who will be dearly missed.”
The Royal Exchange Theatre, where she was a trustee, and who worked together on the biennial Bruntwood playwriting prize since 2005, described her as “remarkable”. In December the partnership won an award for Best Business Partnership in recognition of the 15,000 plays which entered the competition and the support for 27 productions of new work.
