Joanne Orr has research interests in both the tangible and intangible aspects of heritage and culture and has practitioner experience in both. She has been the CEO of an accredited NGO and has experience of developing public policy for culture and of implementing the 2003 Convention. She has developed innovative approaches to inventorying and an inclusive definition of ICH. She served on the inaugural Steering Committee for the ICH NGO Forum. She also served on the UK National Commission for UNESCO.