Clore Leadership appoints three dynamic industry leaders to its Board
Clore Leadership is delighted to welcome three new appointments to its Board. Suzann McLean MBE, actress and Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham; Jonathan Reekie CBE, Director of Somerset House; and Kate Varah, Executive Director at the National Theatre.
They will join an impressive board of cultural leaders led by Moira Sinclair OBE, Chief Executive at the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, who support the team to inspire and equip cultural leaders at all stages of their careers to be change agents for their practice, organisations, communities and wider society.
(l-r: Suzann McLean MBE, Jonathan Reekie CBE and Kate Varah)
Suzann, Jonathan and Kate will steer Clore Leadership in responding creatively and effectively to the evolving needs of cultural leaders, ensuring they gain the skills, competences and confidence to navigate the maelstrom of current challenges – from the impact of Covid 19 and financial constraints to new technology and changing workforce dynamics.
The significant experience and expertise of the new appointments will strengthen Clore Leadership’s vision for a society enriched by arts, culture and creativity, in what is an important year for the organisation as it celebrates 21 years of cultivating excellence and innovation in the leadership of culture.
They will also ensure Clore Leadership remains future focused as it strives to remain vigilant to key shifts in sector priorities, perspectives and practice.
Suzann, Jonathan and Kate bring a wealth of wisdom, insight and experience – from theatre and the performing arts to the wider creative industries – to our vibrant and committed board. As leaders themselves, as employers and as champions of new talent, their impressive range of skills will help us remain forward-thinking and agile in how we effectively support leaders from the sector in these increasingly volatile times. I look forward to working with them over the coming years.
Moira Sinclair, Chair of Clore Leadership and Chief Executive, Paul Hamlyn Foundation
In these challenging times for the cultural sector, this is such an important time to join the trustees of Clore Leadership. It is crucial to broaden our understanding of leadership and empower creative leaders and make a lasting impact. As CEO/Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham, I have pushed the boundaries of traditional theatre to amplify underrepresented voices. This experience has given me insights into the needs within the sector and I am passionate about creating mechanisms for leaders to have sustainable careers. Clore Leadership’s commitment to driving change and listen to the needs of leaders perfectly aligns with my values and I am honoured to join as a trustee.”
Suzann McLean MBE, actress and Artistic Director of Theatre Peckham
I’m delighted to have been asked to join the Clore Leadership Trustee Board. I’ve hugely admired the work of the Programme since its launch and have watched it play a pivotal role in ensuring the sector is equipped to address contemporary challenges and thrive in an environment that is very different to the one I started out in. I firmly believe in its vital importance to the arts and those who work in it, and I’m looking forward to supporting the staff and board in the next important phase.”
Jonathan Reekie CBE, Director of Somerset House
“The future of our creative industries is heavily reliant on the work we’re doing right now on our talent pipeline. The work of Clore Leadership and its rigorous commitment to diversification of the sector is fundamental if we are to retain and motivate the best young talent today. As a long admirer of Clore Leadership’s programmes, and regularly dazzled by the gravitas and skill of their alumni, I believe that there is no more important focus to have. I am honoured to now be at the heart of an organisation with such a profound footprint within our creative sector.”
Kate Varah, Executive Director at the National Theatre
I am thrilled to welcome Suzann, Jonathan and Kate to our Board, at a time when we look forward from 21 years of leadership learning and anticipate what the future holds for cultural leaders. I know they will enhance our aim to cultivate excellence and innovation in leadership, that is both inclusive and relevant, to meet the ever-evolving needs of leaders in these complex and challenging times.
Hilary Carty, Executive Director, Clore Leadership
For enquiries, images and interview requests contact Lauren Gildersleve at [email protected]
Themes Governance Inclusive Leadership Practice Sector Insights
