We are pleased to announce that Jenny Layfield has been appointed as Chief Executive at Explore. This exciting news comes as we join the Arts Council’s National Portfolio of cultural organisations. Explore is one of only 16 library authorities in the country with this status.
Jenny has worked in a variety of roles within cultural and heritage organisations for most of her career. Most recently she was Museum Director at the National Coal Mining Museum for England. Jenny has also worked in various roles for the National Trust including General Manager for Nostell in Wakefield. Jenny is a Chartered Member of the CIPD and has over 15-years experience working as a HR specialist.
In 2022 more people than ever joined our libraries, we completed work on a new library for Haxby and Wigginton, and York’s Big City Read returned. We were here for the people of York in challenging times, offering warm, community spaces where everyone is welcome. In 2023, as an Arts Council investment organisation, we will bring great cultural experiences into our spaces, inspiring even more people and helping unlock the creative talent of the future.
Chris Edwards, Chair of Explore said:
“I am personally delighted that Jenny has accepted the Chief Executive position with Explore. These are challenging times and Jenny is an experienced, successful, and highly regarded manager who has worked at the National Coal Mining Museum and at Nostell and Goddard’s with the National Trust. The combination of her experience, her values, and her drive and determination make her an ideal fit for Explore as we enter the next important period in our development.”
Jenny Layfield, Chief Executive, York Libraries and Archives said:
” I am thrilled to be joining the fabulous team at Explore. I was bowled over by the passion and innovation the whole team demonstrated in their desire to ensure that libraries and archives are inviting, exciting and welcoming places for the people of York and look forward to working with them to continue to build on their success.”