Sam Owen welcomed as new head of Kensington Palace and Kew Palace

Historic Royal Palaces has appointed Sam Owen to take the lead on operational, financial and stakeholder responsibilities for the five-star Kensington Palace and Kew Palace.

Spending 10 years with the Science Museum Group, Owen has managed commercial operations for visitor catering, corporate and commercial hire, and commercial experiences for the last three years. Historic Royal Palaces is hoping that Owen’s experience covering guides, dealing with simulators and the IMAX cinema across four venues, as well as his time spent as head of commercial events will bring a fresh attitude to the palaces.

“We are delighted to have Sam on board as Head of Kensington Palace and Kew Palace,” said Paul Gray, Palaces Group director. “Sam brings with him considerable experience in the industry and we are very much looking forward to his valuable input as we head into a busy year of activity at both sites.”

Covering large events at the Palaces, including an exhibition on Princess Diana, Owen hopes his past work and enthusiasm will be reflected as he assumes responsibility for the historical sites.

“On a day-to-day basis I am looking forward to the challenge of increasing visitor numbers to Kensington Palace so more people can discover the incredible stories the palace has to share,” said Sam Owen. “This in turn will support the charitable cause of Historic Royal Palaces and ensure the palaces are well maintained and remain accessible for all to enjoy.”