Trust chief stumped by sudden ousting

The ousted managing director of National Trust Tasmania says he is puzzled by his dismissal after three years of hard work rebuilding the charity.

CEO of National Trust Tasmania, Scott Carlin at the installation of the new Convict Memorial Hub in the Penitentiary Chapel, Hobart. Picture: Linda Higginson

The ousted managing director of National Trust Tasmania says he is puzzled by his dismissal after three years of hard work rebuilding the charity.

The Trust announced managing director Scott Carlin was leaving in a statement issued on Tuesday night.

Mr Carlin says he had worked hard on a significant recovery program, and after being asked if he was willing to sign another three year contract in December, he was shocked to be removed.

He said he believed his desire for accountability around the delivery of major projects had been misinterpreted as opposition to the board’s vision.

“Trust supporters who have heard the news of my termination have been shocked at the removal of an effective leader who has turned an ailing organisation around on so many levels,” he said.

“Many have expressed regret that the Trust as an organisation with a ‘for community’ ethos is damaging its brand through removing a managing director who has been a highly successful manager of people.

“The Trust Board may have taken my role for granted but after the turmoil of the Trust’s previous period, a leader’s welcoming, consistent, strategic direction and positive dynamic is itself enabling.

“The Trust Board did not meet in the latter part of 2024, with Board business being conducted away from the Board table.

“Since 2023, I have received little explicit guidance, have had no one-on-one meetings with the Chair and no performance reviews.”

Mr Carlin said he had worked hard to rebuild the organisations staffing and membership, and had delivered major projects which had won awards and other significant recognition.

A statement issued by National Trust Board chair Catherine Walker said the Trust was “refining its strategic focus to align with emerging opportunities in tourism and commercial development” and would be looking for another leader.

No other reason was given for the decision behind Mr Carlin’s departure. He has been stood down until March 6.

“Scott has been a valued leader of the National Trust Tasmania, bringing dedication and passion to the role throughout his time with the organisation,” the statement said.

“Under Scott’s leadership, the Trust has made strides in raising awareness of Tasmania’s cultural heritage and improving the visitor experience at several key sites.

“Scott’s work has played an important role in strengthening the foundations of the National Trust Tasmania.”

The Tasmanian branch of the Trust was formed in 1960 and manages eleven historic properties across Tasmania.

It has an annual budget of around $3.6m and recorded a surplus of $91,000 for the 2023/24 financial year, down from $911,300 the previous year.

It receives around $300,000 in government funding annually and around $1m in grants from other sources.