Esme Ward biography

Esme Ward is Director of Manchester Museum, at The University of Manchester, with a commitment to lead the world’s most inclusive, imaginative and caring museum.

She is the first woman in Manchester Museum’s 128-year history to hold the role of Museum Director. 

Prior to this, Esme was Head of Learning and Engagement across both the Whitworth and Manchester Museum where she led the growth of learning and public programmes, embedding award-winning health and culture, early years and age friendly work.  

Esme is currently leading a £15 million ambitious capital project, hello future to transform Manchester Museum into a bigger and more extraordinary place to visit and renew its creative and civic mission to bring more joy, inspiration and care to its communities.

Esme is Co-Chair of the National Culture Health and Wellbeing Alliance; Co-chair of the University Museums Group; Environmental Sustainability Lead for Manchester Cultural Leaders Group and sits on the National Museums Directors’ Executive Council.  She is a fellow of the Clore Leadership Programme, and Honorary Professor of Heritage Futures at the Institute for Cultural Practices, University of Manchester.