Royal West of England Academy appoints an all-female executive leadership team

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is proud to announce an important milestone with the formation of an all-female executive leadership team, expertly guided by Director Ren Renwick. This landmark moment is cemented by the appointment of Caroline Booth Morris as the RWA’s new Head of Development. 

Caroline Booth Morris joins the RWA as Head of Development from Bristol Museums, where she served as Co-Development Manager for seven years. Under her leadership, the team achieved sustained growth across the fundraising mix, navigating sector-wide challenges and adapting to shifting economic conditions. Her experience in cultivating donor relationships and driving strategic campaigns will be instrumental in advancing the RWA’s mission and future growth ensuring the organisation is exceptionally well-positioned for its next chapter of ambitious programming and accessibility.  

This announcement marks a significant chapter in the RWA’s story—one that both looks to the future and honours its past. The RWA was founded by Ellen Sharples, a woman far ahead of her time, who established the Academy in the early 19th century to ensure that artists, including women as well as men, had a platform to develop their own arts practice, as well as appreciating fine art. Nearly two centuries later, the RWA continues that legacy with a leadership team that reflects the organisation’s core values of inclusivity, ambition, and creativity. 

The RWA’s structure is built on a distinctive triangle of leadership that brings together: 

• The Trust Board, chaired by George Ferguson CBE 

• The Artist (Academician) Council, chaired by RWA President Hamish Young 

• The Executive Team, led by Director Ren Renwick 

Together, this dynamic model fosters crucial collaboration between artists, trustees, and professional staff—ensuring the RWA remains an inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking institution at the heart of Bristol’s cultural life. 

Ren Renwick, Director of the RWA, said: 

“The RWA was founded by a visionary woman who believed in the power and importance of art. It feels entirely fitting that, nearly 200 years later, our executive team reflects those same values of equality and determination. With Caroline joining us, we are energised and ambitious for what’s next for the RWA. This team is ready to champion our artists and drive meaningful engagement for all our audiences.”