Sheffield Theatres names new Chair

JULIE KENNY will join Sheffield Theatres as its new Chair in July.

An entrepreneur based in South Yorkshire, Kenny founded Pyronix Limited, an alarm security business, in 1986, which she sold in 2016.

She is the Non-Executive Chair of Robson Handling Technology Limited and Non-Executive Director of AESSEALS Limited and SBD Group Limited. She is also the Chair of two national committees dealing with security, resilience and growth for the Defence Security and Tech UK Sector. 

Kenny also serves as Chair of Maltby Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust comprising seven schools and Chair of the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust.

Since 2005, she has been Deputy Lieutenant for South Yorkshire and, in 2023/24, became Master Cutler of the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire.

TOM BIRD, Chief Executive of Sheffield Theatres, said: “This wonderful organisation deserves an exceptional Chair, and in Julie, we have found that.

"She brings with her a perfect combination of a love for the arts, a passionate commitment to serving the people of South Yorkshire, extensive experience of working with local and national government, and an unrivalled business brain.”

Kenny added: “I’m delighted to become Chair of the Sheffield Theatres Board.

"Sheffield Theatres is a force, nationally and locally. A leader in British theatre, renowned for making extraordinary work, the theatres are a jewel in the city’s crown and treasured by so many in our region."