Richard Ovenden appointed Oxford University’s Head of Gardens, Libraries & Museums

Richard Ovenden, Bodley’s Librarian at the Bodleian Libraries, has been appointed Head of Gardens, Libraries & Museums (GLAM) at the University of Oxford. He will take on his new part-time post in addition to his current role at the Bodleian.

Richard succeeds Professor Anne Trefethen, who is transferring her responsibilities as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for People and GLAM to PVC for People and Digital, which now includes leading the iTransform programme, designed to enhance digital capabilities across the University.

The Head of GLAM post was created to take on Anne’s previous responsibilities, such as providing strategic leadership for the GLAM portfolio and representing GLAM at the key University committees including Council.

Anne Trefethen, PVC for People and Digital, said:

Having worked closely with Richard for many years, and seen his clear and thoughtful leadership of the Bodleian first hand, I am confident he will be a very effective leader for GLAM. And I know he will be an excellent champion for GLAM within the University and beyond. I will work closely with Richard to ensure a smooth transition to his new Head of GLAM role and look forward to seeing GLAM grow form strength to strength under Richard’s leadership. I feel confident leaving GLAM in such capable hands.

Richard Ovenden said:

I am deeply honoured to have this opportunity to lead the University’s Gardens, Libraries, and Museums – one of the world’s greatest groupings of cultural and scientific collections, deeply embedded in the academic and cultural life of the University. Prof Trefethen has been an outstanding leader of GLAM and I look forward to building on her work, and to help support the GLAM institutions in service of the University, the international community of scholars, and the wider world, to the highest levels.

Richard will take up his new post with effect from 14 February 2022.