News

Arts & Business NI Announces Incoming CEO

26 Sep 2025

Arts & Business NI has announced the appointment of Brona Whittaker as its new Chief Executive Officer.

With over two decades of experience in Northern Ireland’s cultural sector, Brona has previously worked for a number of leading arts organisations including the Lyric Theatre and Replay Theatre Company, before joining Arts & Business NI (A&BNI) in 2007. Since then, she has played a central role in the organisation’s development and has held a range of leadership roles, including Arts Manager and then Head of Arts, where she shaped and delivered the organisation’s cutting-edge programme of skills development, fundraising and governance support for the cultural sector.

Damian McParland, Chair of Arts & Business NI, welcomed the appointment: “Brona is a passionate advocate for the arts and a proven leader. We are delighted with her appointment and are excited for the future under her leadership. I look forward to working alongside Brona as we drive A&BNI’s vision for a vibrant and sustainable creative sector in Northern Ireland and continue to make a positive and lasting impact.”

Brona Whittaker said of her new role: “I am thrilled to step into the role of CEO at A&BNI and to work alongside our talented team, valued supporters, collaborators, and members to shape a vibrant future for our world-class arts and cultural sector - one that is strong, valued, and invested in. Building on firm foundations, my ambition is to spark new collaborations, deepen connections, and ensure Northern Ireland’s cultural landscape has the tools it needs to flourish. Art and creativity are essential to who we are, and I am passionate about championing its vital role in the social and economic wellbeing of our society.”