Working life | ‘After a few days, I knew the museum would be a wonderful place to work’

You joined the Science Museum 25 years ago as an explainer. Did you ever imagine you’d stay so long and end up in such a senior position?  

Never! The job ad didn’t even mention the name of the organisation – it was a call for people who were “good communicators”. After a few days, I knew the museum would be a wonderful place to work.

I’ve had lots of different roles in the Science Museum Group and each one has been a new experience. It has been a nurturing place to work, so the ability to move around the organisation – taking on new roles with increasing levels of responsibility – has been very natural and I have felt well supported. 

What’s it like working on such a varied site?  

It’s never dull. I’m lucky to work with a huge range of colleagues across a wide span of activities. I love problem solving and applying new ways of looking at a challenge. And the site just so happens to be on the Marlborough Downs, so the views are good – although the horizontal wind and rain can be fun. 

As a champion for sustainable development, what plans do you have for the site?  

We are thinking about whether the site can generate, store and distribute enough electricity for all of the group’s museums. We have committed to improving our biodiversity by tree planting and establishing species-rich grassland meadows and other habitats.

There is an obvious opportunity in designing and building efficient, low-impact collection facilities. The new Hawking Building uses photovoltaics on the roof to provide much of its electricity and is extremely airtight to minimise the demand for air conditioning.  

As well as a career in museums, you’ve also worked as an outdoor pursuits instructor on the Jurassic Coast. What kind of skills did you pick up that you bring to your new role? 

There is no more challenging audience than a group of nervous 11-year-olds about to abseil down a cliff. You have to be able to answer technical questions, have a reassuring approach to managing the activity and be able to quickly pivot.

It’s all about communication and bringing people together with a shared aim – something that is vital in my current role, as we work towards delivering our vision for the park.