NEWS RELEASE
Date: 29 September 2008
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New trustees for Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Ms Jennifer Ullman and Mr Henry Keswick have been appointed as Trustees to the Board of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Ms Jennifer Ullman is Chief Parks Officer for Wandsworth Borough Council and led the successful and impressive restoration of the Grade II Battersea Park. As well as managing 60 parks and open spaces she is also responsible for their development and strategic direction. As Chairman of the Board she led the transformation of Greenspace from a small voluntary group into a national charity and has a proven track record for fundraising in the restoration of Battersea Park and in Greenspace. Detailed knowledge of horticulture, biodiversity, landscape conservation and heritage are all key aspects of Ms Ullman’s work.
Mr Henry Keswick has been chairman of Jardine Matheson since 1970. He was chairman of the National Portrait Gallery from 1994-2001, and President of the Royal Highland Agriculture Society for a year (2003/04). He has developed large gardens in Wiltshire and Dumfries and is currently developing botanical connections in China.
The appointments are unpaid and will run until 31 October 2011. Ms Ullman and Mr Keswick hold no Ministerial appointments.
Notes to editors
- The appointments have been made in accordance with the guidance set out by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments. All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees' political activity (if any declared) to be made public. Neither of the trustees has declared any political activity.
- The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body created by the National Heritage Act 1983, sponsored by Defra and which operates under a Board of Trustees.
- The Board of Trustees for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew comprises a Chairman and 11 members. Eleven members are appointed by the Secretary of State. Her Majesty the Queen appoints her own representative on the recommendation of the Secretary of State.
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Page published: 29 September 2008