Finch named Hay Festival chief exec after Florence departure

Julie Finch has been named as Hay Festival’s new c.e.o. following the departure of former director Peter Florence, who quit after an allegation against him of bullying was upheld.

The appointment was made by chair Caroline Michel on behalf of Hay Festival’s board of directors after an extensive nationwide recruitment process, with Finch to step into her new role in August — one year after Florence’s departure.

Florence, who co-founded the festival in 1988 with his parents, was suspended in October 2020 while a panel reviewed a complaint by a member of staff. On 29th July, the Hay Festival board backed the findings of an independent investigation and panel review that upheld the internal complaint against him. His resignation was later announced. 

Finch brings to the role over 20 years’ experience in the cultural and creative sectors, with former positions including c.e.o. of The Cheltenham Trust, project director of Boola Bardip Western Australian Museum and director of Bristol Museums Galleries & Archives Service.

Most recently, Finch was  c.e.o. and director of Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park, where she developed and led its revisioning programme and a 10-year strategy.

As Hay Festival c.e.o, Finch will be responsible for leading a new organisational strategy, enhancing the organisation’s national and international standing, reach, impact, engagement with existing and new audiences, and its long-term sustainability. 

Michel said: “We are delighted to appoint Julie Finch as c.e.o. of Hay Festival and welcome her vast experience as we continue to forge an exciting future here and further afield. With a proven track record of strong leadership, effective strategy development and widening cultural participation, Julie’s appointment opens a thrilling new chapter for Hay Festival and our industry more widely.”

Finch added: “As a Hay Festival regular over many years, I am pleased to be joining the charity as it continues to deliver world-leading events and reimagine the role a festival can play in our cultural landscape and contemporary society. I am grateful to the board for their trust in my vision.”

This year’s festival runs from 26th May to 5th June, featuring more than 600 writers, thinkers and performers in more than 500 in-person events over 11 days.