Pictured: Amanda Nicols-Polinska. Credit Delapré Abbey Trust.
Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust has appointed Amanda Nicols-Polinska as its first Deputy Chief Executive in a milestone move for the Northampton heritage site.
Amanda, who has been with the Trust since its inception, has worked alongside Chief Executive Richard Clinton since 2020. She takes on the new role to strengthen leadership capacity as the Abbey continues its growth and development.
Her responsibilities will include overseeing strategic management of business, food and beverage, operations, and major projects — most notably the redevelopment of the 19th century stables into a Community Wellbeing Hub.
Amanda has played a key role in shaping the Abbey’s progress, from forging partnerships with Northampton College and Moulton College to bringing catering operations in-house so that profits directly support the Trust’s charitable mission. She is also active in the Tourism Business Network, championing Northamptonshire’s visitor economy and supporting skills development across the sector.
Steve Edmonds, chair of trustees, said: “The Board has long supported the idea of a Deputy Chief Executive to provide greater capacity and resilience at a senior level. Amanda’s experience, dedication, and deep understanding of the organisation make her ideally suited to help lead us into the next phase of our growth with confidence.”
Richard Clinton, chief executive at Delapré Abbey, added: “Amanda has been part of Delapré’s journey from the very beginning. Over the years she has shown exceptional commitment, skill, and creativity, playing a central role in shaping who we are today.
“Her appointment as our first Deputy Chief Executive marks a significant moment for the Trust — one that reflects our growth and the confidence we have in our future. With the Stables project now practically fully funded, we are on the cusp of delivering a major new chapter that will bring together heritage, health, and community in a way that will have real impact for years to come.”
Amanda said: “I’m excited to step into this role and grateful for the opportunity to help drive the next stage of our growth. Having been part of the Abbey’s journey for the past decade, I’ve seen how our team, volunteers and partners have brought the Abbey back to life. With the Stables project, I’m committed to building on that momentum to ensure Delapré continues to offer opportunities for the community to connect, learn and take part.”
The Trust will now recruit a Head of Business and a Head of Food & Beverage to further strengthen its leadership team.
