Former Lord Mayor elected Chair of Barbican

Former Lord Mayor of London, Sir WILLIAM RUSSELL has been elected to lead Barbican Centre's board of trustees.

Sir William has been a member of the board since 2019 and succeeds TOM SLEIGH, who is stepping down after four years in office.

Sir William is also a member of the Barbican Centre Trust, the charitable and fundraising arm, working to grow its community of individual donors, corporate sponsors, and grant makers. 

He has several other charitable interests, previously serving as Chair of the Development Board of the Royal Court Theatre and as a former board member of Guildhall School of Music and Drama. He also sits on the Council of the Royal Theatrical Support Trust. 

Sir William Russell said of his appointment: “This is an exciting time to help shape the future of a compelling, and extraordinary organisation, building on decades of excellence and achievement. The Barbican is a creative powerhouse and world-renowned arts and learning organisation, showcasing the most exciting performers and artists from around the globe.
 
“I would like to thank my predecessor, Tom Sleigh, for all that he has done for the Barbican during his tenure as Chair.”

Barbican Centre is overseen by the City of London Corporation and is a major contributor to the economic, social and cultural life of the City, London and the UK, making an annual £40m contribution to the capital’s economy and supporting over 800 jobs.