The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has announced the appointment of James Blake as its new chief executive officer.
Mr Blake, who is currently CEO of the Youth Hostel Association (YHA), will take up the role in September following the retirement of outgoing chief executive David Butterworth.
He joins the authority with a strong background in national leadership, outdoor access, charitable development and land management. Since taking charge of YHA in 2017, Mr Blake has overseen a period of significant change, modernising the organisation while navigating the challenges of the Covid pandemic, rising energy costs and the wider cost of living crisis.
During his tenure, YHA expanded its social impact work, supporting more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to access the outdoors, while building partnerships across government, the charity sector and national parks in England and Wales.
Mr Blake also led the development of Access Unlimited, a coalition of outdoor youth organisations and protected landscapes, which delivered the £7m Generation Green programme aimed at connecting young people with nature.
Alongside his role at YHA, he serves as non-executive chair of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), a national charity supporting rural communities. His previous experience includes senior positions in both central and local government, including five years as chief executive of St Albans District Council.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Blake said it was “a privilege” to join the authority at a key moment.
He added: “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 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.”
Chair of the authority, Derek Twine, welcomed the appointment, highlighting Mr Blake’s collaborative leadership style and commitment to widening access to nature.
He said Mr Blake’s experience at YHA, particularly in building partnerships and encouraging more young people and families to enjoy the outdoors, would be invaluable in delivering the authority’s long-term ambitions.
The appointment comes as the authority continues to focus on key priorities including climate resilience, nature recovery, sustainable tourism and supporting farming and land management communities.
Mr Blake will officially take up the post in September, with deputy CEO Gary Smith serving as acting chief executive in the interim.
