Day: 12 June 2020

As we expand our programme into Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough and continue our work in Stoke-on-Trent, we’re thrilled to welcome a new member to Appetite’s core team: meet Heather Dowler our new General Manager.

Hi Heather, it’s lovely to welcome you to the team even in these unusual times! Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi, its so exciting to be joining! So I’m from Newcastle-under-Lyme, I grew up here and moved back 3 years ago having lived away for a long time. I worked in Museums for many years, most recently in Lancashire where I was a Museum Manager. It was a busy role looking after the building, staff, collections, events and exhibitions. For the past few years I’ve worked at Keele University on a project to get young people in Stoke-on-Trent to think more about their futures, advise them on different jobs and careers and make sure they know all about university.

What made you want to work with Appetite?

Arts and culture are my real passion, as is the local area so it was an ideal match. I’ve always enjoyed the Appetite events that I have been to and have been so impressed by the variety and quality offered that of course I wanted to be a part of it.

What will your role involve?

Organisation! I’ll be working behind the scenes on tasks including admin, evaluation, marketing and finance and talking to the many partners we have on the project. I’ll also be out and about on event days, at volunteer events and Supper Clubs, taking in the atmosphere and meeting lots of people.

What Appetite events have you seen and what did you enjoy?

My first Appetite experience was the Museum of the Moon which was amazing. There was such a lovely atmosphere and the moon was incredible, so detailed. I’ve also loved Light Night Stoke-on-Trent and Look Up at last year’s Big Feast was fun and so cleverly done, breathing life into the dancing, climbing puppet.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I can usually be found outside at home as I try to wrestle back a garden which has been neglected for about ten years. Recent discoveries include a stone bench which we had never noticed as it was covered in over-grown plants. I also play the clarinet and, when not in lockdown, enjoy playing in a wind band once a month.

What is it like to start a new job during lockdown?

A little strange and certainly different. However in other ways it’s like starting any new role: meeting lots of people, just digitally, reading lots and asking lots of questions. I’m still working from home so my desk and commute haven’t changed!

What are you most looking forward to about joining the Appetite team?

Helping to deliver some amazing experiences and getting more people in Stoke-on-Trent and now Newcastle-under-Lyme involved in Appetite. We are in challenging times but to me that means it’s even more important and relevant to take time out, watch/make/try/talk about something new and Appetite gives people a way into doing just that.