New deputy chair at Poole Arts Trust

Poole Arts Trust Ltd, the charity that runs the arts centre Lighthouse, has appointed MONIKA BARNES as Deputy Chair, alongside four new trustees. 

Barnes, who first joined Poole Arts Trust's board in 2020, began her career in television where she worked in training and development for the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, before setting up her own consulting practice which has supported a global range of clients in the arts and media sectors. 

She also designed and launched Career Savvy Women, a specialist training programme that succeeded in increasing the number of women in senior roles. 

"I had always admired Lighthouse from my visits as an audience member and now that I get to see behind the scenes I know how passionate, hard working and committed everyone is who works there," Barnes said.  

"We have an excellent strategic plan and I know all Lighthouse staff and volunteers will do whatever it takes to ensure Lighthouse retains its place as the cultural gem of Dorset."  
 
Poole Arts Trust has also appointed four new trustees to join its board: Operations Director RNLI CAROLINE GITSHAM, retired Hospitality and Entertainment Operations and Development Director DAVID HOARE, Chief Technology Officer at the Copyright Licensing Agency TONY JOHNSON and senior lecturer in Architecture at Arts University Bournemouth CHANNA VITHANA.

"These appointments ensure that we have a strong, hands-on board that will ensure Lighthouse continues to be well managed, relevant and a true civic asset for our community," said Lighthouse Chief Executive ELSPETH McBAIN.