Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums (TWAM) has appointed a new Commercial Manager to run its independent trading company, TWAM Enterprises Ltd.
Hugh Stolliday joins the company from Ouseburn Farm where he was manager of the North East charity. He previously founded and led the Summerhill Trust and has had roles in business development and marketing in the UK and Germany, including at the Natural History Museum in London.
Stolliday will be part of TWAM’s leadership team with responsibility for all commercial activity, including retail, venue hire and catering operations across nine museums and galleries. His appointment followed the retirement of TWAM’s former Commercial Manager.
TWAM Enterprises was established in 2018 to undertake enterprise activity for Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, which manages 9 museums and galleries and the county archives. All proceeds from TWAM Enterprises are used to run its managed attractions.
Stolliday said “I’m looking forward to working with the amazing team to develop a thriving retail, hospitality and events offer, which is central to the long-term sustainability of our wonderful museums, galleries, Roman forts and archives.”
Keith Merrin, Director of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums added: “Growing sustainable income streams is essential so that we are able to continue delivering outstanding museum experiences and to support the delivery of our commitment to serve our communities.
“Hugh brings a wealth of commercial experience and a background working in the heritage and not for profit sectors. I am looking forward to working with Hugh.”
Merrin is one of three new judges to join the panel of the Museums + Heritage Awards, which takes place next month.
