Headshot of Natalie Melton, Executive Director at Crafts Council. She has ginger hair and wears an orange top. Her hand rests on her face. She looks at the camera, smiling slightly.
Changing Faces

Crafts Council confirms permanent Executive Director

Arts Professional
2 min read

NATALIE MELTON has been made permanent Executive Director at Crafts Council.

She joined Crafts Council in 2019 as Creative Director before assuming the interim position of Executive Director in 2022 following the departure of the organisation's Chair and Chief Executive. 

Melton's appointment comes after Crafts Council made a series of redundancies as part of a restructure in the wake of a reduction of funding from Arts Council England.

Crafts Council said the interim appointment "provided clear leadership as the Board, senior management team and staff body worked through organisational and financial turbulence". 

Since Melton became Executive Director, eight new trustees have joined the Board. 

Melton will lead the recruitment of a new Chair, replacing ANDY MARSHALL and HELEN HYDE as Co-Chairs.

Marshall and Hyde commented: "Over the last 15 months, Natalie has been a brilliant leader for the organisation through difficult times – and there are more challenges to come.

“We know Natalie will lead the team deftly as we formulate and execute our strategy to support the craft ecosystem."

Melton said: "I’m starting 2024 with renewed vigour to deliver Crafts Council’s mission – to champion the power of craft and create the conditions for craft to thrive right across society.

"I’m excited to explore how we can work collectively with the craft community, our partners, collaborators and funders to help makers grow their impact in the world."