Elliott appointed chief executive at Seven Stories

Wendy Elliott has been appointed as the new c.e.o. for Seven Stories, the Newcastle-based National Centre for Children’s Books, promising to increase participation and accessibility. 

She was formerly operations director at the organisation, and became interim c.e.o. in September 2021 following the departure of the previous chief executive Mairi Kidd for personal reasons. Prior to that she held senior HR and operations roles in the commercial and third sectors. 

Elliott said she was “delighted” to be appointed permanently. “Stories have a unique way of helping us to understand ourselves and the world around us, fuelling our imaginations and connecting us across places, times and cultures. I believe that more than ever, we have a special responsibility to reach as many children and young people as possible through books as they navigate the fast-changing world around them,” she said. 

“While reading for pleasure is increasingly prioritised in education for all of its proven benefits, we must recognise the inequalities that still exist in access to books and cultural experiences. We want to put stories at the heart of every childhood, no matter where you are or what your background is. This year we removed our entry fee so that more people can access our diverse collection in the visitor centre, and in March we launched a digital exhibition to share stories from our archive online for free too. However, we know that economic barriers are not the only obstacle to engagement with arts and culture for many, and we have plans to exhibit in new ways and in new places across the UK, with a wide network of collaborators to increase participation and accessibility in the coming years. I’m so proud of what the team are already achieving, and I’m excited for what’s coming next - watch this space.” 

Claire Riley, chair of trustees, added: “I’m thrilled that Wendy has been appointed as chief executive permanently - I know that her appointment will help to drive the organisation forward in a positive and progressive way, and lead to many new opportunities for Seven Stories and the children and young people we work with.”