Caption: Liz Bates (left), the new Director of England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and her predecessor Robyn Llewellyn (right) at a recent visit to Norwich Castle. Image: David Kirkham.

Liz Bates (left), the new Director of England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and her predecessor Robyn Llewellyn (right) at a recent visit to Norwich Castle

Photo: David Kirkham

Changing Faces

Heritage Fund welcomes new regional director

Arts Professional
2 min read

LIZ BATES has been appointed National Lottery Heritage Fund’s director of for the Midlands and the East of England.

She takes over from ROBYN LLEWELLYN, who steps down after three years as director and 30 years with the Heritage Fund.

Bates joined the organisation’s Midlands and East team in 2020. Before this, she was assistant chief executive at InvestSK and, prior to that, CEO of Heritage Lincolnshire, having previously held posts there as historic buildings manager and heritage development officer.

She is a member of the Institute of Historic Buildings Conservation and was previously chair of the Heritage Trust Network and Lincolnshire Heritage Forum.

Bates said: “Having worked in heritage for 25 years, I am constantly inspired by the stories of people who have created, championed and cared for heritage over time. It is a great privilege to work with today’s heritage leaders to care for and sustain heritage in all its forms, particularly to unlock the potential of natural heritage.

“In taking on the role of director of England, Midlands & East for the Heritage Fund, I am excited to take a leading role in delivering the Heritage Fund’s vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future.”