Dawn Bowden MS, Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Chief Whip
There have been significant changes at Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales in recent months and I would like to take this opportunity to provide Members with an update.
Since my last update in December, David Anderson announced he would be stepping down as Director General to take up the role of visiting professor at the School of Governance at Cardiff University. I want to thank David for his dedication to the Amgueddfa. During his 12 years of service, he oversaw the transformation of St Fagans Museum to become the National Museum of History for Wales as well as the development of new programmes and research focused on broadening the role of museums in society and the importance of cultural democracy. He also contributed to giving Amgueddfa Cymru clear strategic direction for the coming years with the 2030 strategy and its six commitments.
Amgueddfa Cymru’s vice president Dr Carol Bell is currently taking on additional responsibilities. I am very grateful to Dr Bell for her continued dedication and for the experience and continuity she brings to the Board.
I am pleased to announce the recruitment campaign for a new chair and vice chair of Amgueddfa Cymru has been launched today. These are exciting opportunities to join the Board of one of Wales’ most important cultural organisations and help set the direction for its future. The closing date for applications is 11 April and I hope these positions will be filled by the summer. Following advice from the Tailored Review panel, I have agreed the change in name from president and vice president to better reflect the nature of the roles.
Once appointed, the new chair and vice chair will lead the Board and work with Amgueddfa Cymru’s executive team and Welsh Government to take forward the recommendations of the Tailored Review.
The Tailored Review panel was established in August 2022 and led by David Allen. An interim report was shared with the Museum and Welsh Government officials in December for discussion and feedback. The final report will be available later this year.
Finally, I recently appointed two new trustees to the Board and would like to welcome John Hunt and Ameerah Mai. They bring new perspectives, energy and experience and I am sure they will make a significant contribution to the Board’s work.