Strawberry Hill House, Horace Walpole’s 18th century gothic villa in Twickenham, today announces the appointment of Derek Purnell as Director.
Derek Purnell joins Strawberry Hill from The Wallace Collection, where he has held the position of Chief Operating Office since 2017. He joined The Wallace Collection in 2014, having previously been Chief Executive of Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Paul Kafka, chair of the Board of Trustees of Strawberry Hill Trust, commented “We are delighted to welcome Derek to Strawberry Hill. He has an outstanding record of leadership in the heritage sector. At this time of challenge and uncertainty across all areas of our economy we believe he has the management skills and creative flair to broaden the appeal of Strawberry Hill House & Garden as it enters the next phase in its long history.”
Derek Purnell, who starts at Strawberry Hill House on July 13th, said today: “The restoration of Strawberry Hill House & Garden over the past decade is a story of outstanding vison and success, backed by an indefatigable army of supporters. I am very excited at this opportunity to build further the reputation and appeal of Strawberry Hill House across the many communities of South West London, and beyond. I look forward to working with the Board of Trustees, the in-House team and volunteers to achieve even greater success in the future.”
– from press release - 9 July 2020