A “forward-thinking” North East museum director has been named as one of the sector’s most influential leaders worldwide.
Keith Merrin – Director of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums – features in the Blooloop 50 Museum Influencer List, announced on 31 October 2024.
The list highlights key individuals whose innovation and creativity have been integral to developing today’s museums. It features several UK museum leaders; however, Keith Merrin is the only person from North East England to be included.
Reacting to his inclusion in the list, Keith said:
“I am pleased to have been included in the Blooloop 50 Museum Influencer List for 2024 alongside an impressive bunch of people from round the world.
“It’s testament to the work that the Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums team are delivering every day in innovative ways for the communities of the North East.”
Blooloop’s judging panel of five museum professionals said:
“Merrin is committed to making culture accessible and relevant to the communities in Tyne and Wear. His vision includes using cultural heritage to address contemporary social issues, such as mental health and social inequality.
“He strongly believes in the power of museums and cultural institutions to contribute to individual well-being and community cohesion.
“Merrin’s leadership is characterised by a forward-thinking approach that balances tradition with innovation. This approach ensures that Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums remain vital cultural assets for the region.”
As Director of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, Keith has overall responsibility for some of the region’s most cherished visitor attractions – including Discovery Museum, the Great North Museum: Hancock and the Laing Art Gallery. He is also responsible for the stewardship of over 1 million artefacts on behalf of a partnership of local authorities and Newcastle University.
The organisation currently manages nine attractions and the archives service for Tyne & Wear. From April 2025, it will take on management of three Northumberland venues: Woodhorn Museum; Hexham Old Gaol; and Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum.
Blooloop is the world’s leading online resource for professionals working in the visitor attractions sector. 2024 marks the fifth edition of its 50 Museum Influencer List.