Dawn Airey, a prominent figure in the media industry with over thirty years of rich experience, has been appointed as the new chair of Arts Council England. Her tenure begins on 1 August 2026, succeeding Sir Nicholas Serota, who has led the council since February 2017 and will conclude his term on 31 July. This pivotal appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the arts sector, with the government aiming to broaden access to culture across the nation.
A New Era for Arts Council England
The announcement was made by Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, who expressed her enthusiasm for Airey’s appointment. “Dawn brings not only extensive experience across broadcasting and theatre but also a deep passion for the transformative power of the arts,” Nandy stated. She underscored the importance of Airey’s leadership at a time when the government is keen to enhance cultural accessibility for all citizens.
Airey, who currently chairs the National Youth Theatre and the educational platform Digital Theatre+, acknowledged the significant legacy of her predecessor. She remarked on Sir Nicholas Serota’s “magnificently and courageously chaired” leadership and affirmed her commitment to prioritising the arts. “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 declared.
A Background Steeped in Experience
Airey’s career spans various high-profile roles, including chief executive of Channel 5 and managing director at Sky and ITV. She also served as the senior vice president for Yahoo! in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and held the chief executive position at Getty Images from 2015 to 2018. Her accolades include being named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her contributions to theatre and charity in the 2024 Birthday Honours.
In her new role, she is expected to champion a fresh mandate for the Arts Council, one that aligns with the findings of a recent independent review. Airey emphasised the need for a transparent and equitable distribution of resources to support the arts, stating, “In a world dominated by technology and automation, it is creativity and human connection that bind us together.”
Reflections from the Outgoing Chair
Sir Nicholas Serota reflected on his decade-long service, describing it as a “great honour.” He highlighted the challenges faced during his tenure, including a global pandemic and economic turbulence, which tested the resilience of the arts sector. “Through it all, the creativity and ambition of the sector have been extraordinary,” he noted. Serota expressed confidence in Airey’s ability to lead, remarking that she understands the unique societal role of the arts and their significant impact on communities.
Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, echoed these sentiments, praising the leadership of Serota while looking forward to Aires’s transformative influence. “We’ll benefit greatly from her wealth of experience across the arts, media, and sport,” he stated, emphasising the need for equitable cultural access throughout England.
Acknowledging the Challenges Ahead
As Airey prepares to step into her new role, she faces a myriad of challenges. The arts have endured funding cuts, the ramifications of Brexit, and shifts in national curriculum priorities. Nandy expressed gratitude for Sir Nicholas’s steadfast dedication during these tumultuous times, recognising the importance of a calm and passionate presence in the face of adversity.
The appointment process for the chair of Arts Council England was guided by an advisory panel, ensuring that the selection was thorough and well-considered. With Airey at the helm, there is hope for a revitalised focus on artistic excellence and accessibility across the country.
Why it Matters
Dawn Airey’s ascension to chairperson of Arts Council England signals a pivotal moment for the arts in the UK. As the sector grapples with economic uncertainties and cultural shifts, her leadership will be crucial for advocating artistic expression and ensuring that the arts remain a central part of national life. By prioritising equitable access and nurturing creativity, Airey’s tenure could redefine the cultural landscape, fostering connections that resonate with diverse communities across England. In an era where the arts are often sidelined, her vision may just reinvigorate public engagement and appreciation for creativity in all its forms.
