Sussex Archaeological Society strengthens leadership team with two new hires
The Sussex Archaeological Society, the 175-year-old organisation that cares for the Sussex Past properties, including Lewes Castle, Fishbourne Roman Palace, the Anne of Cleves House and Michelham Priory House and Gardens, has announced two new senior appointments.
Leanne O’Boyle will be joining as Head of Historic Properties, while Tim Ridgway will be joining as Head of Marketing & Communications.
Trained archaeologist Leanne brings over 16 years’ experience in the heritage sector to the Society. Raised in Sussex, she holds an MA in Cultural Heritage Studies from The Institute of Archaeology (UCL) and excavated a Roman villa in Barcombe near Lewes as part of her studies.
Leanne has been the Head of Cultural and Visitor Strategy for the City of London Corporation since 2019. She is a Board member of both the London and Middlesex Archaeological Society (LAMAS) and the City of London Archaeological Trust, and an expert advisor for the Centre for the History of People, Place and Community.
Leanne said, “I grew up visiting Sussex Past properties like the Long Man of Wilmington and Michelham Priory, so I already knew that these were important historical sites with rich stories to tell. These extraordinary sites span thousands of years of our collective past, shining a light on events of local, national and international importance.
“When I applied for this role, I was struck by the ambition of the organisation, how it’s investing in people and looking to the future. I find the atmosphere of hope, optimism and forward-looking incredibly exciting.”
Tim has spent the last decade working in regional, national and international media organisations, developing and leading communications teams. Since 2017, he has been the Deputy Head of Communications for Adur and Worthing Councils, working with senior decision-makers and politicians across the two local authorities.
Tim is also Chair of the Brighton Pride Social Impact Fund and a trustee with Home-Start Arun, Worthing and Adur. He commented: "I'm delighted to be joining Sussex Archaeological Society at what is an extremely exciting chapter in the organisation's 175-year history.
“With a new CEO, experienced board and engaged membership, there is enormous opportunity to promote the work of the society and its amazing portfolio of historic properties.
"As someone who has lived and worked locally for more than a decade, I am passionate about the history and heritage of this fantastic county. I can't wait to share that enthusiasm with colleagues, partners and visitors, so that the rich stories of Sussex's past are brought to life to inform, educate and excite future generations."
Andrew Edwards, CEO of the Sussex Archaeological Society, said: “We are delighted to welcome Leanne and Tim to the team and looking forward to the breadth of expertise that they will both bring on board. We are ambitious about the future and know we have found the right people to bring our exciting plans to life, which will enable us to share Sussex’s history with more people than ever before.”
Leanne and Tim will be in post from 04 January 2022.
For more information, please visit https://sussexpast.co.uk/