The Broads Authority is delighted to announce that Sarah Cowley has been appointed as its new Chief Executive.

Sarah brings an impressive record of leadership and delivery from two decades working at the heart of government in the UK and overseas. She has led complex teams, shaped major policy programmes and brought people together to deliver results in challenging environments. She has a reputation for strategic thinking, problem solving and collaboration. Her experience spans environmental and climate policy, community engagement, supporting British businesses and driving sustainable economic development, all of which will be invaluable in leading the Broads Authority into the future.

She grew up in Norfolk and will be returning home to take up the role. With a long‑standing personal connection to the Broads and a deep commitment to protected landscapes, she has great passion for the area and a clear vision to set the Broads up for the future. She is looking forward to working closely with the many communities, organisations and individuals who care for the Broads to ensure they can continue to develop and thrive.

Sarah said: “I am delighted to be joining the Broads Authority and to have the opportunity to lead the dedicated team in this special place where land, water, nature and people come together.

"The Broads is shaped by a remarkable community - from residents to conservation partners, local businesses to our thousands of boat owners whose contributions are essential to maintaining the waterways.

"I am excited about working in partnership with all who live and work in the Broads and with the eight million people who visit each year. Together we must conserve and enhance this unique wetland, ensure everyone can access and enjoy the Broads, and safeguard navigation for current and future generations.

"Responding and adapting to the challenges and opportunities ahead will require working together with transparency, commitment, innovation and shared expertise. I look forward to listening, learning and leading the Authority over the coming years.”

Harry Blathwayt, Chairman of the Broads Authority, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Sarah will be joining us as our new Chief Executive. All six Board members involved in the recruitment process believe this to be an outstanding appointment. We are all greatly looking forward to working with Sarah.”

Tristram Hilborn, Chief Operating Officer for Forestry England and Vice Chairman of the Broads Authority, added: “The applicants went through an exhaustive selection process and Sarah was the standout candidate. She is a truly remarkable leader and the Authority is very fortunate to attract someone with such impressive expertise and experience.”

Alan Goodchild, Chairman of the Authority’s Navigation Committee, said: “Sarah’s appreciation of the breadth of interests in the Broads is very evident. She understands the unique opportunities and challenges of looking after a unique navigational area that is not only a much‑loved inland waterway and tourism destination, but an internationally important wetland and haven for rare wildlife.”

Sarah will take up the role on 3 August 2026.

John Packman, the current Chief Executive, has agreed to postpone his retirement until mid‑May. Emma Krelle, Director of Resources, will act as interim Chief Executive until Sarah is able to take up the post.