Hilary became Director-General of the National Trust in 2018. She has worked for the Trust since 2006, first as Regional Director for Northern Ireland, then for Wales, and then London and the South-East. In 2014, she was appointed Chief Operating Officer. Originally trained in graphic design, Hilary’s career began in brand and marketing for the drinks industry. In 1998, she was appointed Director of a national arts charity, then CEO of Belfast’s bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2002.