Hughes to head National Centre for Writing

National Centre for Writing (NCW) has appointed PEGGY HUGHES Chief Executive Officer.

Stepping up to CEO in September, Hughes is the current Executive Director of NCW following four years as Head of Programmes. In her new role, she will lead on the literature house and cultural venue’s future plans for Norwich after the region recently became England’s first UNESCO City of Literature. 

With a background in the literature sector and experience across higher education, festivals, libraries and venues, Hughes previously worked at the Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust.

She is the Chair of StAnza, Scotland’s International Poetry Festival, and the former Chair of Literature Alliance Scotland. 

Hughes succeeds CHRIS GRIBBLE who departs after 17 years at the helm.  

“After leading our recent capital project to open new spaces within Dragon Hall, heading up the NPO application process and developing our new Community Advisory Board, Hughes is in a great position to bring her energy and new ideas to our physical and digital communities locally, nationally and internationally,” Gribble commented. 

“Peggy has strong local knowledge backed by national and international experience and is a born collaborator.”

Hughes called it an “honour” to build on Gribble’s “exceptional and pioneering tenure”. 

“I can't wait to open our doors wide to new opportunities and adventures in writing, translating and reading for all our artists, communities and audiences, working together to build an NCW that is fit for the future and open to all.”