As Emma Chaplin approaches the end of her term as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Icon, she reflects on three years of leadership shaped by collaboration, learning, and a shared commitment to the conservation profession.
With a background spanning over three decades in the wider museum sector, Emma Chaplin has brought a wealth of experience to the role.
In this interview, Emma shares what motivated her to apply for the position, the experiences that proved most valuable during her tenure, and the moments she is most proud of as Chair. She also looks ahead to the opportunities facing Icon in the coming years and offers thoughtful advice to those considering stepping into the role themselves.
What motivated you to apply for the role of Chair at Icon?
I was initially motivated to apply for the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees as I was looking for an opportunity to use the skills and knowledge I’d gained from 30 years in the wider museum sector in an impactful way. I was also eager to expand my knowledge and understanding of the conservation profession. Having had previous dealings with Icon, I was thoroughly impressed with the organisation and wanted to help them develop. It felt like the perfect match, having something to give and wanting to learn.
As Icon’s Chair, is there anything from your previous experience you would highlight as having been particularly helpful?
I brought with me a strong understanding of what effective charity governance looks like, alongside the confidence to know where to seek advice and support when needed. I would encourage anyone considering a similar role to explore the resources and training offered by the Association of Chairs, which are invaluable. I also firmly believe that a strong conservation sector underpins a successful heritage sector, and I had a clear appreciation of the value conservation brings, alongside an understanding of how to work as a constructive and collaborative partner.
Looking back at the last three years, what initiatives or moments during your time as Chair are you most proud of?
There are three moments in particular that stand out. First and foremost was the appointment of Emma Jhita as CEO of Icon. She has brought a renewed energy and confidence to the role and will be instrumental in guiding Icon into its next phase of development. The second was the the Icon 2024 Conference in London, which marked the first time since the pandemic that everyone was able to come together in person. It was great to see the energy and positivity around conservation and to witness people connecting again. Finally, the 2025 vote to pursue an application for a royal charter was a significant milestone, providing an important opportunity to demonstrate the value and impact of the conservation profession.
Emma Chaplin at Icon's Winter Reception
As Icon continues to evolve, what do you see as the greatest opportunities in the coming years?
There is a real opportunity to build on the positive work already being done around skills development and routes into the profession. Continuing to strengthen accreditation and career development will be vital in supporting conservators throughout every stage of their careers. Icon can also do more to provide further support to our specialist groups and celebrate their work more widely. Our active members who volunteer are Icon’s biggest strength. There is a growing need to champion skills and training in industrial heritage, alongside raising broader awareness of the value of conservation, particularly through the petition for a Royal Charter.
What advice would you give to the next Chair of the Board of Trustees?
Start by building good constructive relationships with the Icon team, the board, members, partners, and stakeholders. Approach the role with an open mind, setting aside any preconceived ideas, and focus on what really matters. While the Chair is an important leadership position, they do not work alone, having the CEO, board, and the wider Icon team there to provide support. Nurturing these relationships is key to effective leadership. Remember that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts: cultivating a cohesive, collaborative team will allow you to lead with confidence and impact.
Why would you recommend the role of Chair of Trustees at Icon?
It is an incredibly rewarding role. Icon and its members are a pleasure to work with. and there is so much to celebrate alongside significant potential for future development. The Board of Trustees is supportive, engaged, and a real pleasure to collaborate with, making the experience of serving as Chair both fulfilling and inspiring.
Interested in Becoming Icon's Next Chair?
Applications for the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees are now open. To find out more about the role and how to apply, visit the job posting. The deadline for applications is 5PM, Wednesday 11 February 2026.