Conservators appoint a new Chief Executive
The Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) are pleased to announce that Stephen Bound has been appointed Chief Executive, effective 1 June 2021. Since joining WPCC in January 2016 as Chief Operations Manager, Stephen has assumed responsibility for the day to day operations of the Commons, a role that has been particularly critical over the past 15 months as the Commons proved absolutely essential to the well-being of the community.
Following the announcement of the retirement of Simon Lee as Chief Executive in December 2020, Stephen was appointed Acting Chief Executive and since that time has successfully led the organisation through the challenges of the pandemic. Stephen has also played an integral role in the development of the emerging masterplan, which will provide a long-term vision for both the natural and built landscapes of the Commons. Stephen is particularly interested in the ecological aspects of the Commons with an emphasis on ensuring that they are able to recover from the increased visitor numbers and sustain longer-term environmental change.
Prior to joining WPCC, Stephen held the role of Director of Malvern Hills Conservators, a body that was established in 1884 to protect and manage the Malvern Hills and adjacent commons, totalling some 3,000 acres. His experience with Malvern, another body established under an Act of Parliament, has been particularly helpful in the development of WPCC’s operational and strategic policies.
Following his appointment, Stephen commented “I look forward to working with the Conservators and the dedicated staff who manage the Commons day to day. My focus will very much be on the conservation of this important natural habitat, with an emphasis on ensuring that the Commons are able to recover from the increased visitor numbers and sustain longer-term environmental change whilst remaining welcoming to all the visitors who want to enjoy this open space for exercise and relaxation”.
Diane Neil Mills, Chairman of WPCC, said, “On behalf of the Conservators, I congratulate Stephen on his appointment, which carries the unanimous support of the Board. I would also like to reiterate our appreciation to Stephen for the commitment that he has made to WPCC since he joined us and over the past few months in particular. I personally look forward to working with him in the future”.