Bedford Borough Council and the Trustees of Cecil Higgins Art Gallery are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Jeremy Reynolds to the position of Chair of The Higgins Board.
The Higgins Board is an oversight advisory group for The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum, Bedford, which has been created to help set and deliver an ambitious strategy for the museum, improve its ability to generate income and raise funds, and to oversee the Council’s National Portfolio funding agreement with Arts Council England.
The appointment of Dr Reynolds to the Chair of the Higgins Board follows an open recruitment process to find someone with the right mix of experience, skills and enthusiasm to lead the Board in supporting The Higgins Bedford in achieving its next stage of development.
Dr Reynolds, who has lived in the Borough for over ten years, has significant senior executive experience in listed companies internationally, as well as substantial chair, non-executive director and trustee experience with non-for-profit private companies, education bodies and charities. He has chaired a major education charity, a local Multi-Academy Trust, and is currently Chair of Emmaus Village Carlton.
Commenting on his appointment, he said: “The Higgins is a remarkable institution, combining a fascinating insight into Bedford’s history and culture, with a first-rate art collection. I have been a regular visitor since we moved to Bedford and am delighted to be able to play a part in shaping its future.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jeremy Reynolds as Chair of The Higgins Board," says Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council.
"Dr. Reynolds brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our community, which will be invaluable in driving forward our vision for The Higgins. His leadership will help us not only preserve Bedford's rich heritage but also innovate and broaden our cultural offering.
"Alongside Cllr Andrea Spice and Mayor Tom Wootton, I’ve been delighted to have already had the opportunity to sit down and meet with Dr. Reynolds. With his guidance, I’m confident we can make The Higgins an even more vibrant and accessible place for residents and visitors alike."