The appointees – with backgrounds spanning Meta, Comparethemarket.com and Apple – bring powerful expertise in data science, commercial innovation and strategic transformation.
Norwich Theatre has announced the appointment of three NonExecutive Directors to its wholly owned commercial subsidiary, Norwich Theatre Services.
They include data, analytics and AI expert Chaminga Chandratillake, who has worked at Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Meta, the latter as a Data Science Director.
He is a director of Unity FC in Milton Keynes, a grassroots community football club focused on creating inclusive opportunities for young people through sport.
Chaminga said: “My career has focused on using data and technology to help organisations better understand people and the world around them. I’m passionate about the role the arts can play in bringing communities together and making culture accessible to everyone.”
Helen Phipps is Commercial Director at Comparethemarket.com, with expertise in partner strategy, relationship management and data driven decision making.
She explained: “What drew me to Norwich Theatre was the sheer energy and ambition of Stephen and the team, and their commitment to ensuring creativity has a real and lasting impact.”
Matt Key – Business Director for Northern Europe, Apple, is a senior leader with a track record of helping businesses transform through the innovative use of technology.
He currently runs Apple’s Northern European Business Region and their International Majors Accounts, Industries & Partners.
Matt said: “Having spent my life and career in the UK, I’ve seen how vital arts organisations are in keeping our towns and cities vibrant, creative and connected.
“Norwich Theatre is an exemplar in this regard; it opens doors for people of all backgrounds and cultures, builds confidence in communities and brings world leading arts to audiences local and beyond who might not otherwise experience them.”
Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, Stephen Crocker said: “Norwich Theatre is entering an ambitious new era defined by creativity, innovation and the continued evolution of our unique business model.
“As one of only a handful of major regional theatres operating independently and without regular public subsidy, our success relies on bold thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit that drives both our artistic vision and our commercial strength.
“These new NonExecutive Directors bring precisely the insight and energy we need at this moment. Their experience in transformation, commercial partnerships and intelligent use of data will help us unlock new opportunities, strengthen our resilience, and expand the reach and impact of our charitable mission.
“I’m delighted to welcome them to the Norwich Theatre Services Board as we shape the next stage of our journey with confidence and purpose.”
Chaminga, Helen and Matt join the board, chaired by James Cowen (Trustee) alongside Rob Carter (Trustee), Stephen Crocker (CEO & Creative Director), Nick Lloyd (Vice Chair of Trustees), Becci Winton (Finance Director & CRO) and Stephen Wright (Commercial Director & COO).
