Mather and Co expands team with appointment of new project director

Museum design consultancy Mather & Co have added South African project director Kim Kherlopian to its growing team.

As projects director, Kim will oversee the company’s future design and build projects, following a spate of recent global exhibition openings.

The Wilmslow-based design consultancy, which specialises in museum, leisure, retail and entertainment experiences, first started working with South African-born Kim in 2007, when CEO of Mather and Co Chris Mather met him at the SAB World of Beer museum in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The newly appointed projects director, who has extensive experience in CAD design, will lead day-to-day client liaison and project management following a successful career in the museum and leisure experience industry.

Kim and his wife started their own business in South Africa more than 15 years ago. Starting out as a small graphic design company, it evolved into a museum design and build business, employing 20 staff, and undertaking large-scale projects such as the build of The Springbok Experience Rugby Museum in Cape Town.

In 2019 Kim and his wife sold their business creating the opportunity for Chris to approach him about working for Mather & Co. Kim is now managing projects for a roster of clients, including the Silverstone Experience, Gretna Green and the National Paralympic Heritage Centre.

Kim explains:

“I came into the museum sector in a rather roundabout way having been introduced to it by my brother-in-law, who is an audio-visual consultant. At the time I was running a graphic design agency and have seen and had a hand in multiple aspects of bringing together an exhibition. It is an exciting industry to be a part of and no two jobs are the same.

“I have joined Mather & Co at an incredibly exciting time, as there are a lot of new projects on the cards. It is a busy time for the business as it has recently opened a record number of exhibitions in just a matter of weeks, however, I am keen to get stuck in and help the team complete on-going and new projects.

“I can’t wait to see what we will achieve in the future.”

Chris added:

“After working alongside Kim for 15 years, we knew that he would be a valuable addition to the Mather & Co team, as he has the skills and experience of working on global projects. When I heard he was considering a move I didn’t hesitate to get in touch with him.

“We’re thrilled to have him on board and know that he will do an exceptional job as part of our team. There are a number of exciting projects already in the pipeline which Kim has been able to add his unique take on.

I have no doubt he will help to bolster our international business offer, as we continue to cut the ribbon on so many overseas projects.”