New Chair of the Board
We are delighted to announce that the charity’s volunteer Trustee board has a new Chair.
Lesley Giddins took over the role from Dr Stephanie Hawke at the start of the new financial year on 1st April 2023.
Despite the challenges faced by charities and non-profits everywhere, MPA is looking ahead with optimism. Lesley, who joined the Board a year ago, has worked in the public and private sectors, specialising in community engagement, equality and diversity and employability. She has managed her own company for 12 years, working with major companies across the UK. She is an experienced trustee, leading on governance and safeguarding, and a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Lesley has worked with major corporate clients to develop community public arts projects concentrating on community engagement, is an advocate for the arts and a very enthusiastic football supporter.
Having recently stepped back from management consultancy work to concentrate on other activities, Lesley has the time to take on new opportunities and challenges and MPA was delighted that she was enthusiastic about taking on the role when Dr Hawke came to the end of her tenure.
Lesley Giddins said:
I am very much looking forwards to working with my fellow trustees and the team to continue the great work of MPA.
MPA is very grateful for the dedication and diligence of Dr Hawke who has chaired the organisation since October 2017. Her support for the organisation, particularly through difficulties caused by the pandemic, was highlighted by trustees and staff at the latest MPA Board meeting. We are delighted that she will continue in her role as a trustee.
Creative Director of MPA, Nick Hunt, said:
Lesley brings brilliant leadership skills to our organisation. She has worked for two of our local authorities, and has a close and specialised understanding of our diverse communities. But she has also provided consultancy for some of the most powerful multinational companies, and her ambition for our work is unlimited. We are delighted she will be leading MPA to meet the challenges of the near future.