Claire Messenger

Claire Messenger manages the British Museum’s International Training Programme (ITP), where she creates, shapes, develops and delivers an annual programme and further engagement projects. She has held several roles in the British Museum, leading a departmental administration team and working on loans, exhibitions and special events and projects.

In her current role, she works closely with cultural bodies including historic buildings, museums, societies and trusts, university museums and departments, and governments and embassies.

Through the ITP, Claire has supported generations of museum and heritage professionals from across the globe, creating not only a training programme, but a lasting international network built on trust, shared learning and professional friendship,” said one person who nominated Messenger.

“I believe in the power of international networking and cultural diplomacy and focus my time on building a global network of colleagues across geographical and cultural boundaries by providing spaces – online and in person – for mutual learning, discussion and collaboration,” said Messenger.

Additionally, Messenger was named co-chair of ICOM UK in June 2026.“I’m delighted and honoured to be named co-chair of ICOM UK,” she said.

“I look forward to working with my incredible fellow trustees to ensure ICOM UK becomes even more dynamic, relevant and connected, while also embedding better practice across all the work we do for our members and with our project partners, in the UK, the overseas territories and globally.”