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Steve Davies quits NRM

Steve has become a popular figure in the preservation movement since his appointment in February 2010.

His position will be taken by an acting director, Paul Kirkman, who joins on secondment from the Department for Culture, Media & Sport.

Paul Kirkman studied Philosophy at Edinburgh University before joining HM Treasury. In between three spells at the Treasury he was private secretary to the director general of the Confederation of British Industry, studied for an MA in Art History at Goldsmiths College and was head of policy and planning at the Natural History Museum. He joined the DCMS in September 2005 as Head of Museums & Libraries. He is now Head of Arts and Creative Industries at DCMS.

During Steve’s time in charge, he has worked to get the restoration of Flying Scotsman back on track after the bill for the overhaul which began several years before his appointment controversially ran up to more than £2.6-million. He also oversaw the launch of a purpose-built art gallery and the Railfest 2012 event, which made a £200,000 loss.

Steve said: “The National Railway Museum is a very special place in the hearts of many people in this country, with an enviable reputation internationally. I have been proud and privileged to lead a highly motivated team over the last three years, and hope that I have played my part in further promoting the museum’s fortunes. I have, however, decided to accept a firm offer of employment in the private sector as managing director of a company in the leisure and tourism industry. The job I am moving to will provide me with an exciting and enjoyable set of new challenges, which I look forward to immensely. I am sure the National Railway Museum will move from strength to strength in the years ahead.

Ian Blatchford, director of the Science Museum Group said: “Steve’s passion for trains and the railway industry has been evident in everything that he has done at the National Railway Museum over the past two years. We thank him for his contribution and look forward to working with his successor to ensure that the National Railway Museum maintains its position as the leading railway museum in the world”.