Retail and transformation specialist takes lead at National Children’s Museum following period of expansion.
Eureka! The National Children’s Museum has appointed Kirsty Ward as chair of trustees, succeeding Jane Rice-Bowen who held the position since June 2022.
Ward rejoined the museum’s board in 2022, having previously served as a trustee from 2012. Her career includes senior positions at BT, Marks & Spencer, Walmart, Asda and Boots, focusing on innovation and customer-led transformation across retail, financial services and telecoms sectors.
“I’m honoured to become Chair of Eureka! at such a pivotal moment in our journey. For more than three decades, Eureka! has inspired curiosity and creativity in young minds.
“I’m excited to build on that legacy and drive the next chapter — expanding our reach and impact so even more children can explore, play, learn, and believe in what they can achieve,” Ward said.
Rice-Bowen’s tenure as chair oversaw a period of expansion for the organisation, including the launch of Eureka! Science + Discovery on the Wirral in 2022.
Leigh-Anne Stradeski, Eureka! chief executive of Eureka!, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Kirsty as our new Chair. Her experience and values are a perfect fit for Eureka!’s vision and future ambitions.
“I’d also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Jane Rice-Bowen for her outstanding leadership and dedication over the past several years. Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping the Eureka! of today.”
Ward took up the position in July 2025.
