Hilary McGrady is Director General of the National Trust, Europe’s biggest conservation charity.
Originally a graphic designer, Hilary McGrady first worked in brand and marketing before becoming director of a national arts charity. In 2002, she was seconded to become CEO of Belfast’s bid to become European Capital of Culture.
Hilary joined the National Trust in 2006 as Regional Director for Northern Ireland. She later became Regional Director for Wales and the London and South East region and in 2014 was appointed Chief Operating Officer. In 2018, she was appointed as its Director General.
On her promotion to Director General in 2018, Hilary said:
“I am picking up the baton from a long list of inspiring leaders who have helped us grow over the last 120 years. We now have more than 5 million members supporting what we do and a portfolio of extraordinary places. I see my role as building on that success and inspiring more people from all parts of our nation to love, engage with and want to care for the places that matter to them.”
Hilary is married with three children. Her interests include the arts, gardening and hill walking.
Speaking ahead of the graduation ceremony, Hilary McGrady commented:
“I am thrilled to have been granted this honorary doctorate. Northern Ireland is a special part of the world with a diverse and rich landscape, and Ulster University’s three campuses are the perfect springboard for students and their families to experience the best of what The National Trust has to offer.
“It is heartening to hear about the important research being carried out at Ulster University to protect our terrain and coast, and I am grateful to be recognised by an institution that values sustainability in this way.”
