A new boss for the i360 has been appointed, with English Heritage director Steve Bax being named its new executive director – five months after its former chief executive announced she was leaving.
Mr Bax, who has worked in the visitor attraction sector for more than 10 years and is currently Historic Properties Director, London and the East, for English Heritage, replaces Eleanor Harris who departed as chief executive earlier this year, having announced she was leaving in November. He will take up his new role in Brighton on July 3, 2017.
Steve started his career at English Heritage selling admissions tickets from a kiosk, before working his way up through key positions across the country. He has since led the opening of the Elizabethan Garden at Kenilworth Castle and made improvements to the visitor experience at Bolsover Castle, Eltham Palace, Kenwood House and Audley End House.
Steve, who is 46 and was born and raised in Margate, Kent, says the seaside holds “a special place in his heart”. He is looking forward to joining the British Airways i360 team in July.
“I am thrilled to be joining this innovative and record-holding attraction,” he said. “I am also excited about becoming part of the city’s business community and working with other attractions and businesses to promote Brighton and all it has to offer.”
He added: “I look forward to seeing British Airways i360 play its part in ensuring Brighton remains one of Britain’s top seaside destinations.”
British Airways i360 was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects, creators of the London Eye.
Chairman David Marks said: “We are delighted that Steve Bax has agreed to join us as Executive Director of British Airways i360. Steve is highly respected among the UK tourism industry and his wealth of experience makes him the ideal person to take British Airways i360 to new heights.”
Steve Bax takes over from former Chief Executive Eleanor Harris, who stepped down in December 2016 but remains on the board of directors.
Very good news.
I give him 10 months, a year at most and then he’ll be out
He will be amazing and I think you need to be more positive in life. A negative mind will never give you a positive life.
why?
He seems nice.
An amazing appointment
He’ll be a fantastic ED for the attraction. Very nice guy.
I am sure that Steve will make a great addition to the team at I360 , I have known Steve since infant School, I wish Steve every success in his new role.