Jon Finch starts as MLA West Midlands new Chief Executive

21st August 2006

Museums, Libraries and Archives (MLA) West Midlands has appointed Jon Finch as its new Chief Executive.

Jon, who was previously Head of Policy at MLA North West, starts in the new post today, Monday 21st August 2006.

MLA West Midlands is the regional council for museums, libraries and archives. It promotes and champions the role they place in enriching and inspiring communities, recording the life, environment and works of the region’s people and enhancing their cultural, social, educational and economic life.

MLA West Midlands works in partnership with eight other regional MLAs and the MLA Council.

Jon has played a lead role in the Partnership’s Research and Evidence Strategy and on the Strategic Review Working Group.

At a regional level, in the North West, he played an integral role in the development of the Cultural Observatory, the piloting of Regional Commentaries and in the production of Cultural and Heritage investment strategies.

Kathy Gee, who will leave MLA West Midlands as Chief Executive on 1st September,said: “I am just delighted that Jon is taking over. He has an excellent reputation for partnership and cross domain working and I know he will be a lively and active supporter of museums, libraries and archives in the West Midlands. I hope I will work with him and all my wonderful (ex) colleagues at MLA West Midlands, from the other side of the desk in future!”

Jon Finch comments: “I am thoroughly looking forward to working in the West Midlands. The region has museums, libraries and archives of the highest quality and I will ensure that MLA West Midlands continues to work with them successfully and ensure that they are at the forfront of the regios development.”

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Notes to Editors:

For further information please contact Kim Crawford, PA to the Chief Executive on 0121 631 5802, email: or visit our website at: mlawestmidlands.org.uk

Jon Finch’s biography:

Jon’s employment history includes Collection Services Manager at Bolton Museum and Art Gallery and Aquarium and Principal Keeper at Museum of Lincolnshire Life. Jon has also served two terms as Chair of the Museums Professional Group and holds the AMA. He has a 2.1 B.A. Honours in Ancient History and Civilisation and M.A in Museum Studies. He studied at University College Swansea and University of Leicester.