Gaynor is perhaps best known as a Founding Director of the Eden Project in Cornwall, where she joined in 1997 as Finance Director. In that role she was instrumental in securing the £140 million needed to transform a disused clay mine into one of the world’s most celebrated visitor attractions. Just 3 years later she was appointed as Managing Director, over her 15 years of leadership the team achieved many accolades including UK Visitor Attraction of the year on multiple occasions.
Gaynor subsequently served as Director of Public Programmes at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where she led a major brand refresh, established the now-iconic Winter Lights festival, and oversaw significant growth in visitor numbers. More recently, she chaired The Wave Group Ltd, guiding its pioneering inland surf attraction through its capital build, the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, and its successful public opening.
A qualified chartered accountant trained with Deloitte and KPMG, Gaynor brings a rare combination of financial rigour and creative vision to her board roles. She is recognised in Management Today’s Women in Leadership Power List 2024 as one of the UK’s most effective female executives. Gaynor is a committed advocate for greater female representation at board level and for the role of sustainability, natural heritage, and access to education in society.
Her appointment as Chair of the National Botanic Garden of Wales brings exceptional experience of botanic and environmental institutions, complex project governance, and public engagement to the Garden at a pivotal moment in its development.
“The National Botanic Garden of Wales is a truly special destination – perfect for a family day out, with its stunning gardens and expansive, accessible nature reserve. It showcases excellence in science, education, and horticulture, while playing a vital role in helping Wales remain at the forefront of connecting people with the importance of nature in our everyday lives. I am delighted to be appointed Chair of the Board and look forward to working with the team as we embark on the next exciting chapter.”
– Gaynor Coley, incoming Chair of the Board of Trustees