The Open Preservation Foundation (OPF) is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Executive Director, Julie Allen, who started on 1 December 2021.

Julie is an experienced executive who has worked internationally in a range of different organisations, from large, multinational companies and government agencies to start-ups and not-for-profit associations.

David Clipsham, Acting Chair of the OPF Board said:

“On behalf of the Board, I am very pleased to welcome Julie to the OPF. Her strategic leadership experience combined with her proven ability to enhance the value of membership services will be a great asset to the foundation. The Board is excited to work with Julie as our new Executive Director and is confident that OPF will thrive under her guidance.”

Julie will work closely with the Board to steer OPF into an exciting new phase in realising its vision of open, sustainable digital preservation. She will lead the development of new strategic goals for the Foundation, working alongside the team to evolve the OPF reference toolset and further knowledge exchange with members and the wider community.

Julie Allen, Executive Director of the OPF, said:

“Last year, the OPF celebrated its 10th anniversary – a clear testament to its strong position as a neutral and trustworthy body in the digital preservation landscape. As we look forward to building for the future, we must increase and diversify the Foundation’s membership base and ultimately, the sustainability of its work. I am looking forward to working with the team, board of directors and members to help OPF reach its potential.”

Before joining the OPF, Julie worked for Philips Lighting for 20 years in a variety of positions across North America, Asia and Europe. Based in the Netherlands, Julie is also Executive Director of the Netherlands-Canada Chamber of Commerce.