New SPAB Chair for a New Year

The SPAB is delighted to announce our new SPAB Chair, Nichola Tasker. Nichola brings a wealth of organisational knowledge to the role with her experience as a Trustee, a Guardian on the Advocacy Committee, and prior experience on the Education and Training Committee. Nichola is a conservation architect and SPAB Scholar (1998) and while in practice, she led conservation projects at sites including Hardwick Hall, Tyntesfield, Broughton Castle, and the Royal Institution. She has since taken on leadership roles with Historic Royal Palaces and most recently with English Heritage; for a number of years as the charity's Head of National Projects but since 2020, as Stonehenge Director.

Nichola said: ‘I am delighted and honoured to be chosen to be the new SPAB Chair. 2020 was a difficult year for all the heritage and arts sector, not least the SPAB. The Society has however been quick to adapt to changing circumstances and new initiatives such as the expansion of our on-line learning have been a great success. The Trustees and staff have been heartened by the continued goodwill of our Members and supporters, which we have never needed more. I look forward to working with you all to strengthen and continue the Society’s vital work.’

Nichola assumed her new role officially in January 2021.The SPAB would like to thank Charles Wagner and Rachel Morley for serving as Co-Chairs of the SPAB during the latter half 2020. Their professionalism, leadership, and dedication to the SPAB is unwavering and we have been grateful for their guidance and uplifting enthusiasm in the wake of the impacts of the recent global pandemic.