Victoria Baths has appointed Anthony Baker as its new CEO, marking a significant leadership change.
- Baker brings extensive experience in leading transformational projects, previously managing a £3.5m renovation at The Civic, Barnsley.
- His role will focus on preserving the heritage site while also fostering its development as a cultural and community hub.
- Baker succeeds Elizabeth Sibbering, who retired after a decade of dedicated service to Victoria Baths.
- Victoria Baths remains on the ‘Heritage at Risk’ register, signifying ongoing challenges and opportunities for revitalisation.
In a pivotal change of leadership, Victoria Baths, a distinguished heritage site in Manchester, has appointed Anthony Baker as its new Chief Executive Officer. With his appointment, Baker succeeds Elizabeth Sibbering, who retired this summer after ten years of committed service. “There’s a phenomenal opportunity to transform the Baths into the cultural, creative, community hub that this part of Manchester needs,” Baker expressed, indicating his visionary approach towards the site’s potential.
Baker’s impressive track record includes overseeing a significant £3.5 million transformation at The Civic in Barnsley. His professional journey also features pivotal roles as Executive Director and CEO at Freedom Festival in Hull, and Artistic Director and joint CEO at Dance City in Newcastle. This breadth of experience is expected to be instrumental in facilitating the intended transformation at Victoria Baths.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for the Baths, a historic venue that has featured in popular television productions such as Peaky Blinders, It’s a Sin, and Life on Mars. Despite its cultural popularity, the Baths remains listed on Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk’ register, which calls for strategic restoration efforts to preserve its legacy and utility in Manchester’s community life.
To secure the future of Victoria Baths, Baker’s role will encompass steering the next stage of improvement works aimed at both preserving its historical significance and enhancing its function as a community resource. Bernard Priest, Chair of Victoria Baths Trust, expressed confidence in Baker’s capabilities, acknowledging the ambitious strategic plans in place and the leadership required to execute them successfully.
The departure of Elizabeth Sibbering marks the end of a notable era for Victoria Baths. Her ten years of dedication have significantly strengthened the Baths’ position as a community and events venue. The appointment of Anthony Baker symbolises a commitment to continue this trajectory, addressing the challenges and harnessing the opportunities that lie ahead for this historic site.
Anthony Baker’s leadership marks a new chapter for Victoria Baths, aiming at preserving its historic essence while enhancing its community relevance.
