The Auckland Project welcomes five trustees to its board

The Auckland Project has welcomed five new trustees as it strengthens its governance and advances its mission to support long-term regeneration in Bishop Auckland through art, faith and heritage.

The new trustees – Jennifer Scott, Judith Layfield, Nick Downshire, Bob Neville and Victoria Bell – bring experience across the arts, education, land management, global retail, finance and risk. 

They join chair bishop Nicholas Holtam, company secretary Nicholas Eldred and existing board members Jane Dean, Robert Yorke and Brendan Finucane KC.

Jennifer Scott, director of Dulwich Picture Gallery, brings senior leadership experience from national cultural institutions. 

Judith Layfield, vice principal at Bishop Auckland College, reinforces the Project’s strong partnerships with local skills and education providers.

Strategic land and estates specialist Nick Downshire adds expertise in investment, renewables and rural enterprise, while international retail leader Bob Neville brings brand and marketing insight shaped by decades working across global markets. 

Finally, finance expert Victoria Bell, chair of the project’s finance committee, strengthens the board’s governance through extensive experience in audit, risk and financial oversight.

Their appointments broaden the organisation’s capability as it continues its work to use culture and heritage as catalysts for regeneration in Bishop Auckland.

Jane Ruffer, chief executive of The Auckland Project, said: “We welcome Jennifer, Judith, Nick, Bob and Victoria to the board. 

“Their expertise will strengthen our mission to transform Bishop Auckland into a leading destination for art, culture and heritage.

"The Auckland Project is a long-term regeneration initiative rooted in the belief that culture can inspire pride, opportunity and economic growth. 

“With the support of our new trustees, we will continue to focus on creating jobs, boosting education and skills, attracting visitors, and ensuring the town and its communities share in these benefits."

Nick Holtam, chair of the board, added: “This is an exciting moment for The Auckland Project as we welcome such talented new trustees to join the board. 

“Their expertise, leadership and commitment will help guide us through the next phase of our journey, ensuring that Bishop Auckland continues to grow as a place of cultural significance and community pride. 

“Working together, we will build on the progress already made and secure a sustainable future for the Project and the town it serves.”

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