(L-R): Sam Astill, Tom Mayberry
South West Heritage Trust has appointed SAM ASTILL as Chief Executive.
Astill is the current Head of Museums and Audience Development for South West Heritage, where he has worked on projects including the redevelopment of the Museum of Somerset and Somerset Rural Life Museum.
Previously, he worked at National Museums Liverpool before becoming a curator with the Museum of Somerset.
He succeeds TOM MAYBERRY, the Trust's CEO since it was established in 2014, who retires following 43 years in South West heritage.
Chair MIKE MOTUM thanked Mayberry for his "exceptional leadership".
"There are many challenges and opportunities ahead, and we look forward to working with Sam and the whole team to ensure that the Trust remains resilient and relevant.”
Astill said: "Developing our work with communities can improve life chances, build prosperity and create a better future for people in the South West.
"I look forward to developing an organisation that plays a vital role in the daily lives of people and communities.”