Advisory body for the promotion of design excellence across the built environment in Wales has a new chief executive.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca has confirmed that Jen Heal will take up the role at the Design Commission for Wales (DCFW) in January. She will succeed Carole-Ann Davies.
The DCFW was set up in 2002 by the Welsh Government as a public body. It works with the Cardiff Bay administration to develop design-related policy, and supports public and private sector commissioners, developers and built environment professionals to deliver well designed places, buildings and public spaces.
Ms Heal has been DCFW’s deputy chief executive since April 2023, A chartered town planner with a background in planning and urban design, Ms Heal brings a wealth of professional expertise and leadership experience. She first joined the commission in 2014 as a design advisor delivering specialist training, client support, and professional guidance, has co-chaired its national design review service and served as commissioner for the South East Wales Transport Commission.
Ms Evans said: “I am delighted to appoint Jen Heal as chief executive of the Design Commission for Wales. Her exceptional expertise and commitment to design excellence will strengthen our efforts to create thriving communities across Wales.
“Good design is fundamental to placemaking, economic growth, environmental sustainability and improving quality of life for all in Wales.”
“We wholeheartedly welcome the Minister’s announcement,” said Ewan Jones, chair of the DCFW board.
“Jen’s appointment reflects her outstanding expertise and passionate advocacy for the di\erence good design makes to wellbeing and everyday lives.
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“Her ability to collaborate and support, borne out by established, respected relationships across policymakers, designers and clients, will lead the Design Commission into a new era. She brings a purposeful vision to expand its influence, delivering places that work for the people of Wales.”
Ms Heal said: “Design is pivotal to creating places where people, the environment, and the economy can thrive, as well as to delivering value-for-money from public and private investments,” said Ms Heal.
“That’s why I am delighted by the opportunity to lead the Design Commission for Wales and further develop our work promoting the wider socio-economic benefits of good design, informing policy and supporting project delivery on the ground as well as inspiring our future placemakers.
“I’m looking forward to pursuing the growing opportunities to extend our reach and impact, including developing a stronger regional presence and strengthening the commission’s leadership of the national conversation on place design as a driver of social and economic good.”