Coventry 2021 makes key appointment

Coventry 2021 has appointed the creative programmer for London 2012 as its creative director as it ramps up preparations for its year as the UK’s city of culture.

Chenine Bhathena has promised to deliver “an unforgettable year” to Coventry after being chosen in a competitive three-month process.

Coventry won the title at a ceremony in Hull in December and, since then, has been recruiting for a range of roles to plan and deliver the 12-month programme which could stimulate £350m of direct economic impact.

Bhathena said: “This is such an exciting role and I am really looking forward to working with the team and the whole city to create something extraordinary in 2021.

“I can see great synergies between Coventry’s ambitions for 2021 and with what I have been doing with culture and communities during my career.

“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for the city and everyone has seen the positive effect it has had on Hull – but Coventry will tell its own story and will put its own stamp on City of
Culture.”

David Burbidge, the chairman of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, said more than 40 candidates had applied for the post which will formally start in July.

He said: “Chenine’s personality, skills and experience are remarkably aligned to what we want to deliver for the city in the lead up to 2021, the year itself and the legacy so we are delighted to have her on board.”

Chenine will work alongside the existing team which includes Laura McMillan, who is now director of operations and legacy at the Coventry City of Culture Trust.