“It’s a real testimony to the team’s focus and courage because they did a fantastic job.”
“It’s going to be very hard to leave here, after five years I have made some really good friends.
“I feel like I am leaving Liverpool at a time when it’s really on the up, and I am proud to have played a part in that.
“Despite the economic downturn, this is a city that feels more confident and excited about the future.
“It has been the greatest experience of my professional life.”
One of the greatest legacies will be the spirit of collaboration between the city’s institutions, said Mr Donaldson.
He was at pains to thank the council, the city’s people, its artistic institutions, and public and private sector partners for pulling together to make the year a success.
Last night Cllr Bradley said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Kris. He has done a great job.
“He told you the way things were and never tried to hide anything, he’s very sincere.”
Prior to his arrival in Liverpool he had spent the past 15 years living in Australia, where he has citizenship and was involved in the sponsorship campaign for the Sydney Olympics.
He is now planning to return to Oz but says he is still looking into a number of options for future employment.
Culture team dispersed across the world
BACK in 2004, three key directors were introduced to run Liverpool’s Capital of Culture programme, later joined by former artistic director Robyn Archer. Kris Donaldson is the last to leave.
Kevin Johnson left as chief operating officer in April 2004 after only two months in the job for “family reasons”.
Prior to his arrival in Liverpool he had been commercial director for the Millennium Dome.
After his short tenure at the Culture Company he went on to become commercial director for Scottish Rugby.
Jason Harborow left the council in February last year amid allegations he had been “bullied” out of his job.
With the £230,000 pay-off he was given he set up a culture, media and sport consultancy which has offices in Spain and Liverpool.
He has also regularly returned to the city to host radio shows on City Talk.
Robyn Archer, former artistic director, was not an original member of the dream team. She resigned in July 2006 with a £125,000 pay-off after spending less than eight weeks in the city.
She returned to Australia where she is a singer and directs artistic works.
