December 2020
Dominic Hare, CEO, Blenheim Palace
In episode seven we had the thoroughly enjoyable experience of talking to the passionate and affable Dominic Hare, CEO of Blenheim Palace – Oxfordshire’s leading tourist attraction.
He lets us in on his 17-year love affair with Blenheim to discuss the journey so far and outlines what he has planned for his remaining tenure as CEO of the UK’s most iconic landed estate. We explore the history of Blenheim and what it means to be a landed estate; as well as the serendipity of its location and events that led it to become the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
You can learn more about Blenheim and the fantastic events that they have lined up at the Palace HERE.
Dominic, his team, the trustees and Duke of Marlborough have a fantastic vision for Blenheim Palace, Blenheim Estates and The Blenheim Foundation focussed on being the lifeblood of the local economy and enhancing the lives of local people. They are certainly doing their bit with 1.3million visitors a year, delivering £125million to the Oxfordshire economy and supporting 2,500 jobs locally. This vision is culminated in their goals to be completed come the end of Dominic’s tenure in 2027:
1. Treble Blenheim’s contribution to the local economy
2. Train 100 new apprentices
3. Build 300 truly affordable homes
4. Grow the visitor attractions at Blenheim
5. Become a net generator of green energy
6. Become a top 100 employer
7. Complete a £40million restoration program of the UNESCO World Heritage site
8. Bring back the Estate’s lost art collections
9. Build an endowment of £45million to secure the future of Blenheim for generations to come
10. Double the contribution to the community
As an accomplished business leader within the region and farther afield, we discussed Dominic’s journey prior to Blenheim, the great mentors he has had along the way and the characters he struck deals for – from Franny Lee to Barney the Purple Dinosaur and learn from some of his wisdom.
As is customary, we got to hear Dominic’s favourite places outside of Blenheim, the hidden spots for solitude, great places to take the family and a few great recommendations for good food and to enjoy a drink or three.
Listen in to this week’s show to be inspired by Dominic’s purpose and hear about the revolutionary work on show at Blenheim to truly make a difference to Oxfordshire and those lucky enough to call it home.
How can you help?
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Links & Resources
Dominic’s Recommendations
Click here to see Dominic’s favourite places to visit in Oxfordshire.
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