Mairead O’Rourke

I’m an arts and heritage consultant, facilitator and coach with over 20 years’ experience supporting cultural organisations through change and development. I help museums, archives, local authorities and sector bodies to clarify strategy, strengthen governance and evaluate impact.

I work collaboratively with Associates and clients to design practical solutions that balance creativity, sustainability and purpose. My work often bridges policy and practice — from developing national guidance for Arts Council England and The National Archives, to supporting local museums and cultural services.

I’m a qualified coach and I currently serve as a trustee for the Museums Association Support Fund.

Clients

Some of the partners I have worked with include:
Arts Council England • The National Archives • Local Government Association • Art Fund • University of Bristol • North York Moors National Park • Stanwick Lakes • Wrexham County Borough Council • Association of Independent Museums • Penlee House • Surrey County Council • Hastings Borough Council • Dacorum Borough Council • V&A • Royal Society of Sculptors • Chelmsford City Council

Qualifications

MA in Art Gallery Studies, University of Leicester

RD1st Coaching Qualification – Culture at Work (equivalent to ILM level 7)

Museums Association Member

Experience

Over the past decade I’ve delivered projects that span strategic planning, governance reviews, evaluation, and research. My work has included supporting the development of Wrexham Community and Culture Trust, working with the University of Bristol to shape a new Cultural Collections Hub, and strategic development activity for Arts Partnership Surrey and the North York Moors National Park.

I’ve also undertaken research projects, governance and organisational reviews for clients including the V&A, Arts Council England and Surrey County Council. I have written sector guidance for the Local Government Association, The Art Fund and the Association of Independent Museums on subjects including advocacy, changing governance models and mentoring.

Prior to consultancy, I held leadership and development roles within The National Archives, Arts Council England, and Museum Development.