Lord (David) Triesman R.I.P.

It is with great sadness that the Board of Trustees of Dartington Hall Trust (DHT) announces the death of Lord (David) Triesman, Trustee and Chair Emeritus.

David was appointed Chair of DHT in spring 2023 and, quite simply, the troubled Trust and Dartington Estate that he found on joining would not exist today without the mission he undertook. Discovering the full extent of Dartington’s fragile financial position, he immediately became the architect of its turnaround strategy, laying a foundation for stability that will benefit this organisation for years to come.

A man focused on action and positive outcomes, rather than statements of culture and intent, David’s unwavering commitment saw his tenure as Chair and Trustee defined by pivotal achievements: guided by his steady hand at the helm, the Board and Executive Management navigated significant challenges including a major organisational restructuring, substantial operational changes and a refinancing.  

Others will write extensively about David’s remarkable and illustrious career as an academic, trade union leader, sports administrator, government minister and banker. These achievements and experiences informed and underpinned the wise counsel we will miss terribly. Promoting a renewed integrity and collective purpose within the Board, of which robust and open debate was key, David’s sense of accountability and unwavering moral compass drove his leadership at Dartington. He has left an indelible mark on the Trust and a profound legacy.

Our thoughts are with David’s wife, Lucy, and his daughter, Anna Ilona.

May he rest in peace.

David Buchler              Chair

Robert Fedder             Interim CEO