A man with experience of developing and delivering ambitious plans has been appointed chief executive of the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth.
Dr Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, who takes up his new role in the spring, succeeds Professor Pedr ap Llwyd, who has announced his retirement after five years in the role.
He was previously director of Welsh language, Welsh culture and external relations at Aberystwyth University and was responsible for the New Life for the Old College project on behalf of university. This current project will transform the Grade 1 listed building into a cultural and creative centre.
Having extensive experience of higher education, the Welsh language and culture, Rhodri was chairman of Mudiad Meithrin’s board of directors for six years and a member of the Welsh Language Partnership Council for 10 years.
Educated in South Ceredigion, he achieved a degree in History and Welsh History at Aberystwyth University along with a Diploma in Librarianship before completing a Master’s Degree and Doctorate at Cardiff University.
“The National Library of Wales is undoubtedly one of the nation’s leading institutions and it is a huge privilege to be appointed chief executive,” he said. “I am really looking forward to working with the library’s staff, trustees and partners and to promoting its mission among the people of Wales and beyond.
“Yes, there are challenges to be tackled, the most obvious of which is the financial crunch that affects everyone. But there are also opportunities in promoting our culture in all its rich diversity and in taking the library’s incredible expertise and resources to new areas and audiences.”
Ashok Ahir, the library’s president, said: “We are proud to appoint Rhodri Llwyd Morgan in this key role and are very much looking forward as a board to working together to continue shaping the library for the future.
“He is an individual who understands the library and its national and international importance and is experienced in high-level leadership in a number of areas. His experience as a leader will show the way to our dedicated staff in a period of change for our institution and for the sector.”
