The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is delighted to announce the appointment of James Blake, currently Chief Executive of the Youth Hostel Association (YHA), as its new Chief Executive Officer. James will take up the role later this year following the retirement of the Authority’s outgoing CEO David Butterworth.
James joins the National Park Authority with an extensive background in national leadership, outdoor access, charitable development, cultural heritage and understanding of land management.
Since 2017, he’s helped guide YHA through a period of real change, modernising its operations, stewarding it through the challenges of Covid and the subsequent energy, inflation and cost of living crises – all while staying focused on its central purpose to make it easier for young people and families to get out into nature and enjoy new adventures.
During his time in charge, YHA boosted its social impact projects, supported more young people from disadvantaged areas and built strong relationships with partners across government, the youth and charity sector, as well as National Park Authorities across England and Wales.
James also led the development of Access Unlimited - the coalition of outdoor youth organisations and protected landscapes that delivered the successful Generation Green programme - a £7m partnership that connected young people with nature, many from the most socially disadvantaged communities.
James is also non-Executive Chair of ACRE - Action with Communities in Rural England – the national charity that supports and champions rural communities. Before joining YHA, he held senior roles in central and local government, including five years as Chief Executive of St Albans District Council. Speaking about his appointment, James said:
“It is a privilege to join the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority at such an important moment. The National Park is one of the country’s most treasured landscapes, and I look forward to working with staff, volunteers, farmers, land managers, communities, visitors, and partners to ensure it thrives for future generations.
“The National Park has an ambitious new [National Park] Management Plan, and my key priority will be to support its delivery, including working with farmers to drive nature recovery, strengthening access for all, and championing the rural communities at the heart of the Dales.”
Derek Twine, Chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority said:
“James brings a strong record of working collaboratively with the people who shape and care for our landscapes, alongside a compelling blend of strategic leadership, passion for the outdoors, and a proven commitment to widening access to nature.
"His experience at YHA - particularly in partnership building and in making it easier for young people and families to get out into nature - will be invaluable as we work with our many local partners to achieve the shared ambitions set out in the National Park Management Plan.”
James’s appointment comes at a time when the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is advancing key priorities, including climate resilience, nature recovery, sustainable tourism, and long-term support for the farming and land‑management communities that shape the National Park.
James will officially begin his role in September. In the meantime, Deputy CEO Gary Smith will be acting Chief Executive of the Authority.
Source: National Park Authority Press Release