MOTAT appoints new Museum Director 

MOTAT appoints new Museum Director 

The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Hickman-Goodall as their new Museum Director / Chief Executive, effective 1 July 2024. 

Craig has been the Chief Operating Officer at MOTAT since January 2022. As a member of the Museum’s executive leadership team, he has demonstrated that he has exceptional expertise and a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that surround MOTAT and the economic environment that impacts the Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums (GLAM) sector. 

In announcing the new Museum Director / Chief Executive appointment, MOTAT Board Chair Helen Atkins says, “we are delighted to appoint Craig to this role. He is a well-known, passionate supporter and advocate for MOTAT and has an excellent skillset to lead MOTAT over the coming years.  

“MOTAT is at an exciting point in its development. We are facing both challenges and opportunities, now and into the near future, and the Board is in the process of considering MOTAT’s strategic position on these matters. We consider the experience that Craig brings, as our incoming Museum Director, to be vital in assisting MOTAT to best position itself for these challenges and opportunities.”   

Craig has held notable senior leadership positions in the arts, entertainment, and museum sectors in New Zealand, including as Deputy Director of Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Art Gallery, Chief Executive of St James Theatre and Opera House in Wellington, and Chief Executive of North Harbour Stadium. Other senior leadership positions have seen Craig leading the redevelopment and opening of Hawkes Bay Opera House and Hastings City Art Gallery.  

He has held Board Member roles with Te Tuhi Contemporary Art Gallery, Q Theatre and EVANZ. 

On his appointment Craig Hickman-Goodall says, “It is a great honour to be given this opportunity to lead MOTAT through the next five years, navigating the current economic challenges and working with the team to create a secure foundation for MOTAT’s growing role in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. I strongly believe in MOTAT's vision and purpose, and I am excited to be accepting this responsibility." 

Outgoing Museum Director / Chief Executive, Michael Frawley, is stepping down from the role on 30 June 2024 after 11 years of leading the Museum. Between now and this date he will be working closely with Craig to ensure a smooth transition between Directors. 

Contact MOTAT's Communications Manager, for further information, imagery or interviews. Ph: 021 273 3563, nicole.parish@motat.org.nz