In conversation with … Bill Ferris CBE DL, Former Chief Executive, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust
02 May 2024
It’s all about the money.
In the third of our new series of “In conversation with…” evening talks, join Bill Ferris CBE DL, former Chief Executive of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust for an evening that explores the essential development of financial resilience that has enabled The Historic Dockyard Chatham to thrive over the past 20 years and reach of point of financial independence in its 40th year.
Bill held the position of Chief Executive of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust for almost 20 years before retiring in August 2020, during which time he led the transformation of the former Naval Dockyard through its pioneering strategy of “preservation through reuse.”
When Bill arrived, the Trust was facing significant financial challenges and its reputation was at an all-time low. He replaced the original “living museum” concept of the Dockyard with a more “serious” museum/heritage approach. Through a careful balance of commercial tenancy, tourism and residential coupled with substantial preservation projects, the once dilapidated, post-industrial, former Naval Base has been transformed into a flourishing mixed-use heritage estate, at the heart of Medway’s regeneration.
The evening will be compered by Paul Barnard, Deputy Chief Executive at the Historic Dockyard, and there will be a question and answer session following the conversation.
Our talks are free to attend (you do not need a Dockyard admission ticket) but spaces are limited. Tickets must be booked in advance.
*iPhone users – we are aware of an error loading the booking page. To reserve your tickets, please use a desktop, email info@chdt.org.uk, or call +44 (0) 1634 823800.
| When? | Thursday 2 May |
| Where? | The Mess Deck Restaurant |
| Time? | Arrival from 6.30pm for a 7pm start |
| Cost? | Talks are free to attend but we ask that you book in advance |
