Welcoming HiDDEN’s New Chair’s

Recently, our CEO stepped down from the role of Chair of the HiDDEN Network. Manchester Histories will continue to act as the accountable body for the network, ensuring continuity and ongoing support.

Following a period of review and reflection, and with the support of the Heritage Compass programme and consultant Clare Turner, the network agreed that appointing independent Chairs would best support HiDDEN as it enters its next phase of development. We are therefore delighted to announce that, following a successful recruitment process led by Manchester Histories, the HiDDEN Network has appointed two new Chairs: Martin Gaw and Judith Ozkan.

Martin brings over forty years’ experience in the culture, libraries, and heritage sector across the North West. His career spans local authority services and, latterly, Arts Council England. Since retiring, he has remained actively involved in the sector as a volunteer and trustee, including roles with Manchester Histories and Victoria Baths.

Judith is a Manchester-born journalist and accredited PR practitioner with over 30 years’ experience helping people tell stories that matter to them. She has worked across tourism, healthcare, medicine, and the arts, and has held senior communications roles with VisitScotland and leading UK health charities. As Director of SO-PR, Judith delivers communications and media training, supporting leaders and creatives to communicate with confidence and impact.

We are excited to welcome Martin and Judith and look forward to working with them as they help guide HiDDEN into its next chapter.

To find out more about the HiDDEN Network and how to become a member, please visit the HiDDEN website