Celebrating Women Who Lead: Helen Goddard, Project Director, National Slate Museum Redevelopment

For International Women's Day, we are shining a light on one of the incredible women that’s shaping the future of the National Slate Museum. 

Let us introduce you to Helen Goddard, Project Director for our redevelopment project. 

Leading with Purpose 

As Project Director, Helen oversees every aspect of the ambitious redevelopment of the National Slate Museum. Her role is all about ensuring the project delivers on its full potential creatively, culturally, and for communities across Wales and beyond. 

“I’m responsible for the project as a whole,” Helen explains, “and for making sure it delivers on its ambition.”  

A Journey Through Heritage 

Before joining the museum, Helen worked as an archaeologist and community archaeologist before moving into community development work. She spent many years working in the breathtaking northern and western Isles of Scotland, supporting island communities with heritage and community infrastructure projects. 

Helen moved to Wales in 2011, driven by a personal ambition to learn Welsh. She later qualified as a museum professional while working for Conwy County Borough Council. 

Women Leading the Way 

Helen is passionate about women taking up space in sectors where they’ve historically been underrepresented. While the heritage world has strong female representation, construction remains more male dominated. But at the National Slate Museum, the picture is different. 

“One of the wonderful things about our project is that there are numerous women in leadership roles,” she says. “Our Head of Site, Elen; Exhibition Development Manager, Ulli; our Curator, Cadi; and our Heads of Capital Projects, Julie and Diane. All outstanding women.” 

Her advice for other women entering similar fields? 

“Lead authentically. You don’t need to behave in traditionally male ways to lead. It’s okay to show emotion, to be collaborative, and to trust your team.” 

Life Beyond the Museum 

When she’s not leading a major redevelopment, Helen’s full of surprises, including one unforgettable chapter of her life: 

“I once worked on a fishing boat in the Outer Hebrides!” 

Inspired by a Strong Woman 

Helen credits her mother as one of her greatest inspirations. 
“My mum came from a family of 10 children living in rural poverty and went on to carve out her own destiny, never compromising on her dream to help people. She became a Nurse Practitioner towards the end of her career.” 

Thanks for sharing, Helen, you are a true leader and inspiration!