Dawn Bowden MS, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport and Chief Whip
I would like to inform Members of the appointment of Maggie Russell as the new chair of the Arts Council of Wales.
Maggie Russell has more than 35 years of experience as an arts professional, has occupied several senior roles at BBC Wales and been a constant advocate for the arts in Wales for over four decades. Maggie is a welcome addition to the council and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome her to the role.
Maggie Russell will be taking on the role at a crucial time for the Arts Council of Wales and will lead the organisation through its investment review. Her term will start on 1 April 2023 for a period of three years.
The appointment will be remunerated at an annual rate of £43,810 for a time commitment of 10 days per month. Maggie Russell has not declared any political activity.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Phil George, who during his time as chair has been a friend, advocate and champion of the arts in Wales during one of the most challenging periods in the organisation’s history.
I would like to recognise his commitment in steering the organisation through one of the most unique and difficult periods in living memory. I would also like to extend my thanks to vice chair Kate Eden who has taken on a number of additional responsibilities in the past six months.