New Collections Manager appointed at Shetland Museum and Archives

Shetland Amenity Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracey Hawkins as the new Collections Manager at Shetland Museum and Archives.

Tracey has been a vital part of the museum team since 2016, latterly serving as acting curator. During this time she has demonstrated first-rate leadership, overseeing the care, development, and interpretation of Shetland’s 200,000-object collection. She has managed a team of curators and collections assistants, and played a key role in enhancing the museum’s strategic direction and community engagement. The Shetland Museum and Archives service is managed by Shetland Amenity Trust on behalf of Shetland Islands Council.

Her new role will see her lead on key developments including the digitisation of assets, the ongoing care of the nationally recognised collection, and the development of major initiatives such as the museum boat store. She will also oversee the redevelopment of the permanent galleries and the relocation of the collections store.

Chief executive of Shetland Amenity Trust, Hazel Sutherland said: “Tracey brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Her calm and measured approach, coupled with a collaborative spirit and astute problem-solving skills, will serve her well in what is an exciting and challenging time ahead for the museum. She has already demonstrated her leadership through her stewardship of the collection and her success in securing external funding. We are thrilled to have her in this key role as we look to the future of Shetland’s heritage.”

Shetland Islands Council Executive Manager – Economic Development, Tommy Coutts said: “We are delighted with the appointment of Tracey as Collections Manager for Shetland Museum and Archives. Tracey’s passion for heritage, and experience in the museum team, mean that our cherished collection is in great hands, and we look forward to working closely with Tracey and the rest of the team in the continued care and development of the museum service.”

In her time as acting curator, Tracey led the revision of the museum’s Collections Policy - ratified by the local authority in 2023 - and continues to develop key operational procedures that support effective service delivery.

With a Masters in History and a graduate of the Museums Galleries Scotland Leadership Training course (2023), Tracey brings both strategic vision and hands-on experience to her new post. Over the last year, she has taken a reflective, community-focused approach to curatorial practice, ensuring the museum better represents and celebrates Shetland’s diverse cultural identity.

A passionate advocate for inclusive heritage, she has built stronger internal collaborations and opened conversations about how the museum can remain relevant and responsive to the people it serves.

Tracey said: “I am absolutely delighted to be starting a new role with the Shetland Amenity Trust as part of the Museum and Archives Team. Growing up surrounded by Shetland’s unique culture and history has given me a deep appreciation for our heritage, and I’m excited to help bring our stories to life through the amazing collection we care for on behalf of everyone in Shetland.”

Tracey will take up her new role in in July.