Manchester Jewish Museum has announced Gareth Redston as the new Chief Executive of the organisation.
Gareth Redston takes the roll after Max Dunbar left the museum after 10 years in charge.
Redston has worked at the Museum as Head of Programmes since 2015 and played a large role in the growth and redevelopment of the museum. He has been acting as Manchester Jewish Museum’s Interim CEO since December 2021.
He has worked within the cultural sector for more than 20 years including posts at The Science and Industry Museum and Chester Zoo.
With the role now made permanent he will be responsible for delivering on the museum’s stated mission to be a place to connect, share Jewish stories with the world and recognise that there is more that binds us than separates us.
Speaking about the role, Gareth Redston said, “Seeing the museum grow and evolve over the last seven years has been incredibly exciting. Our new building is allowing us to connect with more people of all backgrounds, both Jewish and non-Jewish. In particular I have seen the amazing impact the museum now has on local communities in Cheetham, one of the most diverse areas in the country, but one that is traditionally under served in terms of access to culture. It’s an honour and a privilege to now be asked to lead such an amazing organisation and to serve as custodian of our beautiful building, including our priceless historic synagogue and our inspiring collection of over 31,000 objects. I’m very lucky to have an amazingly dedicated team of staff, volunteers and supporters around me and I’m extremely excited to see what the future holds as the museum continues to respond to the changing world we live in, making connections to make things better.”
Manchester Jewish Museum’s Interim Chair of Trustees Richard Chapman QC added, “This is an extremely exciting time for the museum and the board of trustees are delighted to have been able to recruit such a well-qualified new Chief Executive. Gareth’s infectious enthusiasm for the museum’s work was clear throughout the recruitment process and his understanding of our audiences is second to none. We’re very much looking forward to working with him to deliver the museum’s exciting plans for the future.”
