Dawn Airey, a distinguished figure in the media landscape, has been appointed as the new chair of Arts Council England, set to assume her role on 1 August 2026. She succeeds the esteemed Sir Nicholas Serota, whose nearly ten-year tenure will conclude earlier than anticipated at the end of July. As the arts sector grapples with unprecedented challenges, Airey’s leadership is poised to steer the organisation through a transformative period.
A New Direction for Arts Council England
The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, announced Airey’s appointment with palpable enthusiasm, emphasizing the significance of her extensive experience across various creative industries. “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. Her words signal the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility to the arts, a promise that resonates deeply in today’s socio-political climate.
Airey, lauded for her previous roles—including chief executive of Channel 5 and managing director at ITV and Sky—has a rich career that encompasses a multitude of influential positions in media and arts. Her work as chair of the National Youth Theatre and Digital Theatre+ further showcases her dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent.
Acknowledging the Legacy of Sir Nicholas Serota
Sir Nicholas Serota, who has been a stalwart in the arts community since his appointment in February 2017, reflected on his tenure with heartfelt gratitude. He noted the trials faced by the sector during his leadership, including a global pandemic and shifting cultural engagement patterns. “The creativity, resilience, and ambition of the sector have been extraordinary,” he stated, underscoring the indispensable role arts play in society. His leadership has not only weathered storms but also laid a foundation that Airey will now build upon.
In her own words, Airey expressed her admiration for Serota, describing it as a “great honour” to follow in the footsteps of a leader she regards as an “arts titan.” Her commitment to advancing the arts is clear: “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 asserted.
A Vision for the Future
As Airey prepares to take charge, she has articulated a vision that prioritises human connection and creativity in an age dominated by technology. “In a world where AI, technology and automation are increasingly dominant, human connection, experience, imagination and creativity are the things that bring us together,” she stated, capturing the essence of what makes the arts a vital component of societal well-being.
She also highlighted the urgent need for the Arts Council to become more transparent and equitable in its distribution of funds, stating that the organisation has a “clear new mandate” to support the arts in a fairer and more effective manner. This focus on inclusivity aligns with broader societal calls for greater access to cultural resources, a crucial step in ensuring that the arts are truly representative of the diverse communities they serve.
The Enduring Impact of the Arts
The appointment of Airey comes at a critical juncture for the arts sector, which has faced significant setbacks in recent years, including funding cuts and shifts in national policy affecting cultural education. Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, expressed optimism about the future under Airey’s leadership, praising her extensive experience and the potential for change she represents.
Nandy, in her announcement, also recognised the challenges faced by the arts during Serota’s tenure, thanking him for his unwavering dedication. “Throughout all of this he has been a calm, passionate and reassuring presence and a steadfast champion for access to great art. We owe him our gratitude,” she concluded, a sentiment echoed by many in the arts community.
Why it Matters
Airey’s appointment as chair of Arts Council England is not merely a change in leadership; it represents a pivotal moment for the future of the arts in the UK. As the country emerges from the shadows of a pandemic and re-evaluates its cultural priorities, Airey’s vision of inclusivity and innovation will be essential in navigating the complexities of today’s artistic landscape. Her leadership could redefine the relationship between the arts and the public, ensuring that creativity remains a cornerstone of British life during these turbulent times. The stakes are high, and the arts community will be watching closely as she embarks on this new chapter.