For Leanne, relocating to Norwich wasn’t just about a new job – it was about finding a city that offered the perfect balance between career ambition, culture, community and quality of life.
Having lived in some of the world’s biggest cities, Leanne wasn’t necessarily expecting a smaller city to make such a big impression.
“There was a moment when Norwich just clicked for me,” she says. “You’re walking around, taking in the city, and suddenly you realise: this feels like home.”
“It’s a city rooted in deep history. You see it everywhere in the architecture, the cobbled streets and the historic buildings.
“But at the same time, Norwich is a vibrant, modern cultural city. There’s always something happening and that combination really made me feel like I fit in.“
As Senior Curator of Climate Change and the Dynamic Coast, Leanne’s role combines everything she’s developed throughout her career.
Part of her job involves caring for Norfolk Museums Service’s natural history and geology collections, including fossils, rocks, insects, birds and mammal specimens. She also works with communities across the Norfolk coast to raise awareness of climate change, coastal erosion and environmental change.
“When I saw this role advertised, it felt like someone had written my dream job description,” she says.
“I’ve worked in scientific research, museum collections, communications and public engagement. This role brought all of those experiences together in one position, which I honestly didn’t think I’d ever find.”
The Norfolk coastline also gives her opportunities that are difficult to find elsewhere.
“What’s unique about Norwich and Norfolk is being able to connect museum collections with real conversations about climate change and coastal change. The landscape here becomes part of the work.“
Her advice for newcomers is simple:
“Say yes to everything.”
“There’s so much happening and so many different people to meet. Get involved, go to events, try new things and embrace every opportunity.
“The more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll discover what makes Norwich such a special place.”
After years of moving between cities and countries, Leanne has finally found somewhere she wants to stay.
“I’ve bought a house in Norwich,” she says. “That’s probably the biggest sign that I’ve settled here. It feels like home.”
For anyone considering a relocation, her story highlights exactly what Norwich offers: meaningful career opportunities, a thriving cultural scene, easy access to nature, and a welcoming community that’s easy to become part of.
When Chloe moved to Norwich as a leading Art Director, it wasn’t about stepping back, it was about finding more. More space, more balance, and a different kind of creative energy. Her story reflects a wider shift: a growing realisation that building a successful career no longer has to come at the expense of how and where you live.
