New Chair Appointed for Arts Eds Trustees
Position had remained vacant for over a year
Picture: Claire Blunt
March 25, 2025
The ArtsEd has announced that Claire Blunt is to take over as the head of its Board of Trustees at the end of this month. The appointment follows on the heels of the hiring of Louise Jackson as the school's Principal in February.
She brings wide ranging expertise in governance to the role and she says she has a passion for the performing arts dating back to childhood.
She has previously served on numerous boards and has financial and legal qualifications and multiple board directorships.
During her time as Independent Non-Executive Chair at One Media iP Group Plc, she oversaw governance frameworks. She has also contributed to the charitable sector through non-executive roles at The Archangel Trust and Newstraid Benevolent fund, and most recently in her executive capacity as CEO of The National Family Centre.
Her university education was part funded by work in theatre and dance and this early passion has evolved into a commitment to fostering talent and championing the transformative power of the arts.
Describing herself as a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, she has led initiatives to drive equity across industries. At Hearst, the global media business, she spearheaded changes to the annual pay review process, significantly increasing employee engagement and addressing gender pay disparities.
The appointment ends a vacancy which has lasted over a year following the resignation of Brian Brodie from the role in December 2023. Having only taken the position the previous year, he launched an independent, barrister-led inquiry on the ArtsEd principal Julie Spencer, who has since departed. It was the second inquiry launched in less than two years. He stepped down citing personal reasons after the board received criticism for the way it handled the bullying and misconduct allegations at the drama school.
Farida Mannan took over as Acting Chair and has been in the role since and was thanked by the ArtsEd for ‘stepping up’ and her ongoing stewardship.
Claire Blunt said, “I am thrilled to join ArtsEd as the newly appointed Chair and to champion its mission to inspire and empower the next generation of creative talent. With a deep passion for the arts and education I am committed to driving innovation, excellence and opportunity whilst working with the incredible staff and students.”
Acting Chair of Trustees, Farida Mannan, said, "It has been a privilege to serve as the Acting Chair of ArtsEd; it has been a remarkable journey. This role has brought me a profound appreciation for the talent, dedication, and creativity that defines our community.
“As I step down from this position, it is with great confidence and excitement that I, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, welcome Claire Blunt as the new Chair and I look forward to working with her in the future. Claire brings a wealth of experience and passion, and I am certain that under her leadership of the Board, ArtsEd will continue to thrive and inspire the future generations."
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