Dawn Airey, a seasoned figure in the media landscape, has been appointed as the new chair of Arts Council England, stepping into a pivotal role at a time when the arts sector is grappling with profound challenges and changes. Airey will succeed Sir Nicholas Serota, whose nearly decade-long leadership concludes at the end of July. Her term begins on 1 August, following an announcement made by Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.
A New Era Begins
Airey’s extensive career spans over 30 years across various sectors, including broadcasting and the creative industries. She has held senior positions at Channel 5, Sky, ITV, Yahoo, and Getty Images. Nandy expressed enthusiasm about Airey’s appointment, noting her broad experience and passion for the arts. “Dawn brings more than just a wide range of experience across broadcasting, theatre and the wider arts – she brings a passion for what the arts can do for this country and all the people in it,” Nandy remarked, asserting that Airey’s leadership will be crucial as the government aims to enhance access to the arts for all.
In her acceptance statement, Airey acknowledged the significant legacy of Sir Nicholas Serota and expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the council. “The importance of the Arts Council in championing art and culture has never been more needed because the sector has never been more vital to our nation,” she stated. Airey underscored the need for the Arts Council to adapt and respond to the evolving landscape, emphasising that the arts are essential for fostering human connection in an increasingly automated world.
A Legacy of Leadership
Sir Nicholas, who was initially appointed in February 2017, has overseen the Arts Council during tumultuous times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and various economic challenges. Reflecting on his tenure, he described it as a “great honour” and highlighted the resilience and creativity of the sector. He expressed confidence that under Airey’s leadership, the Arts Council will continue to thrive and evolve, reinforcing the vital role of the arts in society.
Darren Henley, the chief executive of Arts Council England, also praised Sir Nicholas for his guidance and expressed excitement about the new chapter under Airey’s stewardship. “We’ll benefit from her wealth of experience across the arts, media, and sport,” Henley remarked, noting that Airey’s leadership will catalyse necessary change in championing the value of artists, arts organisations, and cultural institutions.
A Broad Spectrum of Experience
Beyond her new role, Airey currently chairs the National Youth Theatre and the educational platform Digital Theatre+. Her leadership credentials are further bolstered by her positions with the Barclays FA Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship board, as well as her appointment as chancellor of Edge Hill University. Her contributions to the arts have not gone unnoticed; she was recognised with a CBE in the 2024 Birthday Honours for her services to theatre and charity.
Airey’s commitment to promoting artistic excellence is evident. “Arts Council England champions artistic excellence and experience for all, wherever you live, whatever you do,” she stated, signalling her intent to ensure equal access to cultural experiences. With her extensive background, Airey is poised to address the pressing needs of the arts community, advocating for a fairer distribution of funding and support.
A Call for Change
Lisa Nandy also took a moment to acknowledge Sir Nicholas’s contributions to the arts, thanking him for his tireless dedication during challenging times, which included navigating funding cuts and the impact of Brexit on cultural policies. “We owe him our gratitude,” Nandy concluded, emphasising the importance of steadfast leadership in the arts.
The appointment of the chair of Arts Council England is made in accordance with the organisation’s royal charter, following recommendations from an advisory panel that includes independent members. This process underscores the significance of the role in shaping the future of the arts in England, ensuring that it remains vibrant and accessible.
Why it Matters
As the arts sector faces unprecedented challenges, the leadership of Dawn Airey at Arts Council England comes at a critical juncture. Her appointment signals a renewed commitment to championing the arts in a landscape increasingly threatened by economic uncertainty and technological advancement. The emphasis on equitable access to cultural experiences, coupled with her rich background in media and the arts, positions Airey as a potential catalyst for transformative change. As the nation grapples with its identity and cultural heritage, the role of the Arts Council under her guidance may prove pivotal in ensuring that the arts continue to thrive for generations to come.