The Barkerville Heritage Trust announced Wednesday that Kate Cox is leaving her role as CEO of Barkerville Historic Town and Park.
In the role since 2020, Cox led the historic site through the pandemic. Recognizing the need for a new financial sustainability plan, she implemented changes to the historic site's governance, business, and operating frameworks, achieving financial sustainability.
“We acknowledge Kate’s dedication as a change agent for Barkerville and appreciate her establishment of crucial operational benchmarks and commitment to best practices in business and governance," said Al Richmond, chair of the Barkerville Trust.
Cox and her team established meaningful consultations with local Indigenous Peoples, including the Dakelh and Secwepemc nations.
These efforts ensured that Barkerville’s exhibits, programming, and general engagements reflect Indigenous presence during the gold rush era and address the impacts of colonialism, the Barkerville Heritage Trust noted in a press release announcing the news, adding the collaboration positioned Barkerville as a leader in advancing Indigenous and cultural reconciliations, including with Chinese-Canadians.
She also led Barkerville through spring flooding, wildfires, excessive heat, and poor air quality from wildfire smoke.
“Under Kate’s leadership, Barkerville has enhanced its programming within its financial means," said Craig Smith, vice-chair of the trust. "We now have the tools to make informed decisions, ensuring ongoing financial sustainability and effective governance.”
Cox received the 2023 BC Tourism and Hospitality Award for Businesswoman of the Year. “Kate’s leadership has safeguarded Barkerville’s heritage values while ensuring its long-term sustainability," said Jennifer Goad, executive director of Mountain Resorts and Heritage at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
The search will begin for a new CEO, with the trust aiming to have someone in the role by late spring 2025.
In the interim, Barkerville will continue under the direction of its management team.
