Ivar named new Crichton chief exec

The CRICHTON Trust has welcomed Ivar Milligan as its new chief executive, to lead the charity based in Dumfries.

Described as bringing a strong track record in senior leadership, Mr Milligan has been appointed to lead the Trust’s continued work to protect, develop, and champion The Chrichton as a thriving destination for learning, enterprise, wellbeing, and community activity.

Chairman of the Crichton Trust, Dr David Hall said: “Ivar brings a depth of leadership experience and values that strongly align with the Trust’s vision.

“We’re excited about what we can achieve together, including building on recent milestones such as the UNESCO Memory of the World inscription, to strengthen the Crichton’s role in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway.”

Mr Milligan described the new role as ‘an honour’.

He said: “Our team here at the Trust deliver the experience, expertise and day-to-day dedication to help make The Crichton such a distinctive and valued place.”

Mr Milligan added: “As we look ahead, I’m keen to support the continued development and unification of our teams, building on their strengths and shared purpose to affirm our position as an employer of excellence.”

The new role follows a national recruitment process, which took place after previous CEO, Gwilym Gibbons stepped down in April 2026.

The Trust is the custodian of part of the former Crichton Royal Institution, which was a Victorian mental health hospital founded in 1839.

It consists of 85 acres of parkland and gardens that are open to the public, as well as 27 Historic buildings.

The site has been redeveloped over the last 30 years and homes over 160 organisations and businesses.