Brogdale Collections, a leading charity based at the National Fruit Collection, is excited to announce the addition of Helena Pettit to its esteemed board of trustees. Bringing a wealth of expertise from her role as Director of Gardens and Shows at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the world leading gardening charity. Helena Pettit will play a pivotal role in advancing the organisation’s mission to conserve and educate about the National Fruit Collection.
RHS Wisley was the original location of the National Fruit Collection from 1922 until it was moved to Brogdale Farm in Faversham, Kent in 1952.
Helena currently serves as the Director of Commercial and Innovation at the RHS, a position she has held since September 2023. In this role, she has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation. Her dedication to advancing the commercial and charitable sectors aligns seamlessly with Brogdale Collections’ commitment to the preservation of fruit biodiversity.
With an impressive track record, Helena has been the Director of Gardens and Shows at the RHS since August 2020. Concurrently managing the RHS Gardens, catering, and retail, she oversees a substantial income of approximately £75 million. Her strategic leadership has been pivotal in devising growth strategies for charitable income, ensuring the organisation’s financial sustainability for future activities.
Helena’s tenure at the RHS also includes a significant role as the Director of Shows, a position held since February 2018. Over the past 5 years and 10 months, she has successfully managed a department with a £37 million turnover, overseeing prestigious events such as the RHS Flower Shows, which collectively attract over 500,000 visitors annually.
As the newest trustee of Brogdale Collections, Helena brings a wealth of experience, a strategic mindset, and a passion for innovation. Her appointment is expected to further enhance the organisation’s efforts in preserving the National Fruit Collection’s biodiversity and promoting educational initiatives.
“We are delighted to welcome Helena Pettit to the Brogdale Collections family. Helena joins at an exciting time for the charity with major opportunities to expand and develop our activities for greater public and community engagement, and for education including our successful school’s programme. We look forward to the valuable insights she will bring to our board of trustees,” said Alan Roe, Chair of Trustees.