Brighton’s panoramic observation tower, British Airways i360, is poised to welcome a new Executive Director.
Steve Bax, currently Historic Properties Director, London and the East, for English Heritage, will join the attraction in July.
Bax has been active in the visitor attraction sector for over a decade. He began his career at English Heritage where he initially sold admission tickets from a kiosk. Since then, he has worked his way up through the ranks, securing a variety of key roles across the country.
These include leading the opening of the Elizabethan Garden at Kenilworth Castle, as well as transforming the visitor experience at Bolsover Castle, Eltham Palace, Kenwood House and Audley End House.
“I am thrilled to be joining this innovative and record-holding attraction,” commented Bax. “I am also excited about becoming part of the city’s business community and working with other attractions and businesses to promote Brighton and all it has to offer.”
Born and raised in Margate, Kent, Bax admits that the seaside holds “a special place in his heart”.
“I look forward to seeing British Airways i360 play its part in ensuring Brighton remains one of Britain’s top seaside destinations,” he said.
British Airways i360 Chairman, David Marks, said the company was delighted that Steve Bax had agreed to take on the role:
“Steve is highly respected among the UK tourism industry and his wealth of experience makes him the ideal person to take British Airways i360 to new heights.”
Bax takes over from former Chief Executive, Eleanor Harris, who stepped down in December 2016. Harris will continue to serve on the board of directors.
At 162 metres, British Airways i360 is the world’s tallest observation tower. It was designed by the London Eye’s creators, Marks Barfield Architects, and first opened its doors to the public on August 4, 2016.
Images courtesy British Airways i360/Visual Air