New Trustees
As we mark our 40th anniversary, the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum Board has appointed three new trustees with experience of finance, fundraising and sustainability. The new additions build on an already diverse range of trustees with breadth and depth of skills,
The Charity’s trading arm, Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum Enterprises Ltd has also expanded its Board to ensure that the shop continues to thrive and support Forestry England in providing unforgettable visitor experiences. Profits from the shop are used to fund essential work across the arboretum such as conserving endangered trees, learning events for schoolchildren and opportunities for an even wider audience to access and enjoy this special place.
Trustees who joined the Board in May 2025:
Kit Hare (left) and Emma Skuse (right)
Kit Hare has spent 15 years working in the charity sector, most recently leading the Major Donor team at Alzheimer’s Society. Kit will provide support and guidance in building a network of long-term philanthropic supporters to protect the future of the Arboretum.
“As a local, I am fortunate in having spent many hours at the Arboretum. I strongly believe that being outdoors and connected with nature has enormous physical and mental benefits for everyone, and Westonbirt Arboretum has provided a wonderful outlet for me and my young family. I look forward to playing my small part in ensuring the next generation understand the importance of trees and the role they play in conservation.”
Emma Skuse brings a strong understanding of the wide-ranging duties of UK Trustee Boards having worked in Occupational Pension Scheme Management for over 19 years. She has experience of managing diverse groups of stakeholders and has strong communication skills. As a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Emma also brings the relevant financial skills needed for the role of Finance Trustee. Emma has lived locally for nearly 40 years and has enjoyed visiting the Arboretum and all it has to offer throughout this time. Emma also enjoys gardening, and countryside walks with her dogs.
“I am delighted to be joining the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum Board as a Trustee and look forward to supporting this amazing place that we are so lucky to have in our local area.”
Martin Allman (left) and Mark Ballard (right)
Martin Allman has worked in commercial and operational roles in climate technology for almost 20 years, with a particular focus on solutions to support the energy transition. He has Board experience in the private and not-for-profit sectors, including as a director of a solar energy cooperative. Prior to starting his career in cleantech, he was an officer in the British Army. Martin lives locally with his family who have enjoyed the Arboretum as active members for many years.
“Westonbirt Arboretum has been an important part of my family's life for almost 20 years. I'm thrilled to be able to support the Arboretum's continuing success as a Trustee.”
These new appointments follow another Trustee appointment, Mark Ballard, who joined the Board earlier this year. Mark brings extensive knowledge of the Arboretum, having been a former curator.
“I am delighted to be joining the board as a trustee, where I can hopefully continue to add value in some small way. It's fair to say that Westonbirt is in my blood, after 23 years of employed service at the arboretum, looking after the internationally important living collection and historic landscape. It's great to still be part of a wider team that care passionately about the arboretum and its future.
Independent Directors of the Charity’s Trading Subsidiary, Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum Enterprises Ltd
Tracey Scully (left) and Ronny Helvey (right)
Ronny Helvey has had a successful career as Brand and Marketing Director for several major high street lifestyle bands including The Body Shop and Joules. He is also currently a Trustee with responsibility for Communications and Marketing at the Friends of the Royal United Hospital, Bath. With his in-depth commercial experience of the customer journey and product development working both in the commercial and charity sectors, Ronny will be a great support to the development of the shop enhancing customers’ visits to Westonbirt.
"Volunteering to support Westonbirt as an Independent Director of Enterprises gives me a great sense of purpose by being able to share my experience and encourage visitors to discover more and enjoy both the great outdoors and shopping, so they share how great it was and tempt others to visit too."
Tracey Scully brings a wealth of experience in driving brand growth for premium household names, including Shark Ninja and Dyson both in the UK and globally. Throughout her career, she has led both small and large business units, consistently delivering outstanding commercial results. Tracey is passionate about fantastic service, product innovation and outstanding all round consumer experience.
“Developing exceptional customer experience backed by exceptional products creates outcomes that people love to share with their friends. By putting the customer at the heart of everything, I strongly believe in giving consumers a voice to share their experiences, both positive and constructive, and using that feedback to continuously improve. I am excited to contribute to the incredible work that the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum do to ensure every visit is a memorable one.”
