Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales Welcomes New Chief Executive: Jane Richardson

Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales has announced the appointment of Jane Richardson as its new chief executive. Richardson, who has been serving as the chair of Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, since 2019, is set to assume her role in a part-time capacity on September 11, with plans to transition to full-time by November.

A Transition of Leadership

Jane Richardson takes the reins from David Anderson, who concluded his 12-year tenure as the director general of Amgueddfa Cymru in April. This transition marks a significant shift for the museum, as the chief executive role is newly established and will involve direct reporting to the chair and board of trustees.

Amgueddfa Cymru’s Rich Portfolio

Operating as a collective entity, Amgueddfa Cymru oversees seven national museums and a collection centre. This institution plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of Wales.

A Vision for the Future

Expressing her enthusiasm, Jane Richardson shared her sentiments on the new position, stating, “I am excited and honored to take up this role at what is an important time both for Amgueddfa Cymru and for Wales’s wider cultural sector. I look forward to working with the board and the team to ensure we are bringing our collections to life in ways that tell the stories of all the communities of Wales.”

A Diverse Background

Jane Richardson brings with her over 20 years of experience in leadership roles across Wales’s public, private, and third sectors. Previously, she served as the director of economy and place at Conwy County Borough Council, overseeing infrastructure projects that included establishing a new culture center within the historic town of Conwy.

During her time at Visit Wales, Richardson led efforts in tourism product development and played a pivotal role in facilitating investments in new attractions, such as Zip World and the Royal Mint. Her extensive background also includes a decade with the National Trust, where she directly managed historic properties and led visitor experience initiatives across Wales.

New Faces Joining the Team

Jane Richardson’s appointment follows closely after the recruitment of Kate Eden as the new chair and Rhys Evans as the vice chair of Amgueddfa Cymru. Both Eden and Evans are slated to join the institution in September and October, respectively.

Acting Amgueddfa Cymru president Carol Bell commented, “This is the beginning of a new era for Amgueddfa Cymru, and Kate Eden and I are delighted to welcome Jane as our first chief executive. Her strategic and leadership skills, amply evidenced by her track record, will be invaluable at a time of great change, challenge, and opportunity both within and outside the walls of our museums.”

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