New CEO rises at Phoenix Leicester

Phoenix Leicester, an independent cinema and art centre has announced the appointment of Kate Chadwick as CEO, assuming the role from John Rance who retires in April after more than 13 years at the charity.

Chadwick boasts over two decades of experience in the cultural and charity sectors.

She worked as deputy director at MK Gallery in Milton Keynes then transitioned to the role of executive director at Stanwick Lakes in Northamptonshire in 2022, she oversaw the enhancement of hospitality and visitor services while establishing a new exhibition program at the 750-acre countryside attraction and protected nature reserve.

Ali Sinclair, Phoenix’s chair said: “After an extensive recruitment process which attracted a lot of interest, I am delighted we are making this announcement to welcome Kate Chadwick as our new CEO. Kate has a background which is both art and venue based, and she understands the challenges and opportunities of the role. Kate starts at the beginning of April; we know that she is very excited about joining Phoenix and I very much look forward to working with her.

“The board is indebted to retiring CEO John Rance for his commitment to Phoenix, his resilient leadership and wide ranging expertise that have been invaluable in steering Phoenix through some very complex and challenging times. He has worked tirelessly with the board, stakeholders and the senior management team to deliver the recent capital expansion and he leaves us with a tremendous legacy of a bigger and even more vibrant Phoenix as a platform to realise our artistic, community and business ambitions. We wish John every happiness in his retirement from Phoenix, this will be a period of change and adjustment for all of us who have worked closely with him for many years.”