Historic England Extends Terms of Key Commissioners
Historic England has announced that the terms of Commissioners Sandra Dinneen, Paul Farmer, and Dr. Patrick Newberry have been prolonged for an additional nine months, extending their service until 30 September 2026. These individuals bring extensive experience in various sectors, including public, private, and non-profit organisations.
Commissioners’ Backgrounds
Sandra Dinneen serves as Chief Executive and has held significant positions across different sectors. With her expertise in economic growth and health, she has led numerous successful projects. Previously, she has chaired the District Councils Network and held directorial roles at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Foundation Trust and the Sapientia Multi Academy Education Trust. Currently, she chairs Historic England’s Business and Finance Committee.
Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Age UK, previously led Mind, a major mental health charity. Beyond his executive roles, Farmer serves as a Non-Executive Director for NHS Frimley Integrated Care Board and recently became a Trustee of English Heritage. Since 2018, he has also been a Commissioner at Historic England and was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016.
Dr. Patrick Newberry has held multiple non-executive positions in finance and non-profit entities. His career includes a significant tenure at PwC, where he was a partner for 25 years. Dr. Newberry is currently the chair of the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and the Cornwall College Group, as well as Vice Chair of The Georgian Group.
Appointment and Governance Details
The recent extension of the commissioners’ terms aligns with guidelines set forth by the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. This ensures that all appointments are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Notably, the commissioners have disclosed no significant political activities during the past five years, adhering to the governance code.
Each Historic England Commissioner receives an annual remuneration of £4,133 for their service, reflecting the commitment and responsibility that comes with these roles.
Importance of Public Appointments
The appointments of individuals like Dinneen, Farmer, and Newberry are crucial for ensuring effective governance in public institutions, contributing to the preservation and promotion of England’s historic environment. With around 400 regulated public appointment roles across various public bodies, the UK Government encourages applications from diverse and talented individuals nationwide.
For further information or to explore opportunities within public appointments, interested individuals can visit the HM Government Public Appointments website.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/three-commissioners-terms-extended-to-the-historic-england-board
