The Portico Library in Manchester Appoints Susie Diggines as New Chair of Trustees
The Portico Library in Manchester has appointed Susie Diggines as its new Chair of Trustees as the city centre s much loved historic library moves into a new chapter of public ambition, focused on bringing people together through books, reading, debate and discovery.
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the organisation, as the Portico Reunited project prepares its Delivery Phase submission to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, marking the next stage of its nationally significant initiative to reunite, restore and transform the Grade I I listed building for all to enjoy.
Susie Diggines succeeds John Carpenter who steps down from the role after three years in the position, and five years as a Trustee of the Portico Library. A long standing resident of Greater Manchester, Susie Diggines brings extensive experience of leading organisations through periods of significant change and transformation . She has a well established relationship with the Portico having previously held the position of Secretary of the Library and more recently ha s been assisting the Portico Reunited team on legal matters. A solicitor by qualification, she has significant governance and board experience and has served as a Magistrate.
Commenting on her new appointment Susie Diggines said: "The Portico Library has reached a crucial point in history. An institution which was founded in 1806 by the great and the good of Manchester it was limited in outreach. It was a hidden gem.
"Today we want to change that and make the Portico a recognised treasure and a living testament to the talent, drive, ambition and inclusive spirit of Mancunians and the North."
Dr Thom Keep, Librarian and CEO of the Portico Library said: "On behalf of everyone at the Portico, I am absolutely delighted to welcome Susie Diggines as our new Chair. Susie brings passion for the Library, its remarkable collection, the communities who use it and its civic purpose, alongside clarity of leadership and a determination to secure a sustainable future for the Portico through Portico Reunited.
"At this pivotal moment in our history, her expertise, energy and conviction about what the Portico can become could not be more timely.
“I also want to extend my profound thanks to John Carpenter for his more than three years as Chair. John has been immense. Calm, thoughtful and steadfast, he has guided the Portico through complex and often challenging issues with integrity and care. His commitment, diligence and wise counsel have been central to the progress we have made and to the strength of the organisation today. We are deeply grateful for his leadership, continued support and, on a personal level, his friendship."
Both Susie and John join an illustrious line of Portico Chairs who have stewarded this extraordinary institution for over two centuries. It is a privilege to build on that legacy as we shape the next chapter of the Portico s story.
Commenting on the appointment John Carpenter said: "Susie Diggines was the unanimous choice following a rigorous selection process. This brings my stint to an end after five years as a Trustee and three years as Chair of one of Manchester's finest and oldest cultural institutions. I am immensely proud to have held this position during such an important period in its history. Proud, but also very grateful to the unstinting support of staff, volunteers and fellow Trustees. If ever there was a dedicated team this was it."
John Carpenter will continue his involvement with the Portico in his role as Chair of the House Committee, and as a Member.
