The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) has announced the appointment of Matthew McKeague as its new Chief Executive, who will join the AHF from the Churches Conservation Trust and take up his post in October 2017.
The AHF writes:
Matthew will join the AHF from the Churches Conservation Trust where, as Director of Regeneration, he leads a highly successful team developing innovative new uses for historic churches. He has led on the delivery of the Trust’s most complex and challenging projects, many of which have received national and international recognition. The most recent example is in Ipswich, where the mediaeval St Mary at the Quay has been transformed into ‘Quay Place’, a wellbeing and heritage centre – the result of a successful partnership with Suffolk Mind. Matthew has also developed the Trust’s work on social impact measurement, including its first Theory of Change, and a new consultancy service.
Prior to joining the Churches Conservation Trust in 2008, Matthew worked on a range of regeneration, social enterprise and community projects across the UK. His experience encompasses roles within the regeneration departments of local authorities in London as well as private sector consultancy work. Matthew also has considerable experience in the third sector as a Trustee and Chair of an environmental social enterprise.
AHF’s Chairman, Liz Peace, said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Matthew McKeague as our new Chief Executive. Matthew’s strategic insight, breadth of experience in regeneration and passion for historic buildings – and especially the role they can play in revitalising communities and the opportunities they create for social enterprise – makes him ideally suited to lead the AHF as it continues to grow and develop.’
Matthew said: ‘I have long admired the role the AHF has played in helping communities breathe life back into cherished historic buildings. Its reach and impact over many years is remarkable. At the same time, it is forward-looking and ambitious to expand its role to support communities rescue and find new uses for historic buildings they value; a role I passionately believe in. AHF has a clear strategy and I am looking forward to working with the hugely experienced and dedicated team here to deliver AHF’s important work.’
