‘Honoured’ new CEO joins Sovereign Hill

THE Sovereign Hill Museums Association has appointed Craig Mathieson as its new chief executive officer.

Mathieson is currently the chief executive of The Y Ballarat, or YMCA Ballarat.

His appointment is expected to bring strong strategic leadership, financial stewardship and governance experience to The Sovereign Hill Museums Association.

Mathieson is credited with having driven organisational growth, strengthened sustainability, and long-term planning during his time with YMCA.

Sovereign Hill Museums Association chair Angela Carey said the board is pleased to welcome its new appointee to the outdoor living museum.

“Craig has extensive stakeholder engagement experience, working closely with government, industry and community partners and contributing to major policy and funding discussions,” Carey said.

“He has obvious skills as a collaborative, outcomes-focused leader who has a strong commitment to mission-driven organisations, regional impact and partnership-building.”

Mathieson said he is excited to be joining an organisation as iconic as Sovereign Hill.

“I am incredibly honoured to be joining The Sovereign Hill Museums Association as chief executive officer,” he said.

“I look forward to working alongside the board, staff, volunteers, and community partners to build on the organisation’s strong foundations, continue enhancing the visitor experience, and help ensure Sovereign Hill remains a vibrant, world-class cultural tourism destination for generations to come.”

The appointment follows an extensive national recruitment process undertaken by board, focused on identifying a leader who will guide the organisation through its next phase while honouring its heritage, partnerships and public purpose.

Mathieson will take up his position on 13 July, with interim CEO and chief museums officer Katrina Nitschke to continue in the role until that time.