Published on Thursday 08 May 2025
Poole Museum Foundation has appointed a new board of trustees to support Poole Museum’s vision as it prepares for its highly anticipated opening this summer.
The newly appointed board brings together a dynamic and diverse group of professionals from across a range of sectors, including education, marketing, culture, recruitment, retail, legal and environmental expertise.
Their collective knowledge and leadership will play a crucial role in positioning Poole Museum as an outstanding museum, gallery and cultural centre on the south coast when it opens in a few months.
The museum, which is owned and operated by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, has undergone a transformation over the last three years which has included the conservation, restoration and remodelling of all three of its listed buildings, supported by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The new Chair of the Board of Trustees, Martin Davies, Chairman, Rawlins Davy Reeves said:
“It’s an honour to lead Poole Museum Foundation’s new Board of Trustees at such a pivotal moment for the museum.
“Our new board brings together a wealth of expertise which will be invaluable as we work to support the museum and forge a fresh identity for the Foundation.
“We’re keen to build stronger bonds with our existing communities, whilst attracting new supporters and create meaningful partnerships to help ensure the long-term sustainability of the museum.
“We want to be influential in placing Poole Museum firmly on the map as a vital cultural landmark for Poole that’s rooted in collaboration, creativity and community.”
The new Board of Trustees includes (in alphabetical order):
• Tom Clarke, Senior Community and Volunteering Manager at National Trust
• Martin Davis, Chariman, Rawlins Davy Reeves
• John Grinnell, Manager, Poole Dolphin Centre
• Lisa Mann, Vice Chancellor and CEO, Arts University Bournemouth
• Frances Miles, Director, Jobshop
• Christopher Proudley, Consultant, Property and Planning Solicitor
• Michael Spender, Writer, Curator and Cultural Advisor
• Dr Kate Terkanian, Senior Lecturer in Modern History, Bournemouth University
• Liam Toms, Communications and Engagement Manager, Grapevine
Poole Museum Foundation are also recruiting a youth trustee in the coming weeks to join the board.
Councillor Andy Martin, Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture, BCP Council said:
“We’re delighted to welcome the new board of trustees to Poole Museum Foundation at such an exciting time. Their diverse expertise and passion will be instrumental in driving the museum’s vision forward, helping to ensure its success.
“The transformation of Poole Museum has been a remarkable one, and I know they will build upon this momentum to help the museum thrive.
“The dedication and legacy that the previous trustees leave behind will help inspire the new board as they embark on this exciting new chapter.”