The Open Preservation Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Neil Jefferies as the Foundation's new Executive Director with effect from 1st November 2024. Neil will be responsible for managing the organisation and working with the Board to execute our new strategy.

He is an Innovation Specialist in Open Scholarship at the Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford and a director of Data Futures GmbH, a not-for-profit focussed on delivering sustainable digital resources.He is a co-creator of the International Image Interoperability Framework and the Oxford Common File Layout, Community Manager for the SWORD protocol, and a member of the Bit List Council for the Digital Preservation Coalition.

On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Julie Allen, our Executive Director since late 2021, for all her efforts and achievements", said Remco van Veenendaal, Chair OPF. "In building a new team and strategy, she has strengthened the Foundation and positioned us for our next growth phase. Following the announcement of her intention to improve her work/life balance earlier this year, she has continued to support the board, staff and members as we have searched for a suitable replacement.

Neil brings a wealth of experience in the field and we are excited to work with him as our new Executive Director. His technical and managerial skills will be invaluable as we look to the future to provide open, sustainable digital preservation tools for the whole community."

"Open standards and tools are essential for ensuring that the survival of digital records and culture is not a privilege reserved for the well-resourced, and that such materials remain under the stewardship and control of their respective communities", said Neil. "I look forward to building on the excellent work of my predecessors, further developing the OPFs offerings for its membership and the wider digital preservation community. "

Julie will continue as Executive Director for the month of November as we manage this planned transition. Neil will take over in December while Julie finishes up outstanding projects. To maintain continuity, in the new year she will continue her involvement with external projects for the Foundation.