Glyn Farrow, chief executive of St Bride Foundation, has stepped away from the charity. His final day was New Year’s Eve.
Farrow has led the resurgence of the charity, beginning the task of cataloguing the vast collection of type and printed ephemera that has been gathered over the years; courting sponsorship from industry suppliers and improving the facilities of make the location a more welcoming space for industry events. St Bride Foundation has also faced costs associated with repairing the fabric of the century old building.
However, earlier this year it was discovered that the charity had overstretched itself and needed to make immediate cut backs, losing two staff and temporarily reversing decisions to make the building as open as possible. Farrow took widespread criticism for this action, much from those with no experience of St Bride’s, despite having no choice within the terms of the charity’s remit.
It instigated a different approach to raising funds including the current Foster a Book to raise £125,000 from industry sponsors, a sum to be matched by the Heritage Lottery Fund. There are also plans to restart print workshop courses, though with a more professional edge.
His departure, however, has a more personal flavour for the motorcycle enthusiast. He says: “After a serious road accident two years ago I think I might fare better in a building without 16 staircases and 41 rooms, all of which are fascinating and steeped in history, but all on slightly different levels.”
Farrow took charge at St Bride’s six-and-a-half years ago. “I have had a wonderful time, met some brilliant and inspiring people and been introduced to what must be one of the friendliest industries, the printing industry.
“I wish the Foundation every success in the future and will always continue to support it in every way I can.”
Interim management will be shared between Danielle Nagler and Helen Lowe. The intention is to continue with the full range of activities at the Foundation, including a programme of exhibitions as well as letterpress composition and printing courses.
Glyn Farrow stepped down from chief executive of St Bride Foundation at the end of the year, citing the difficulty of navigating its numerous rooms and staircases following a motorcycle accident which badly damaged one of his legs.
