1. Hello! Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hi! I’m Matthew and I’m delighted to be joining Arts & Business NI as Membership Engagement Officer. In my role, I’ll be working with members across Northern Ireland to build connections, encourage collaboration and help strengthen the relationship between the arts and business sectors.

Previously, I worked with The King’s Trust, where I focused on outreach, partnership development and supporting young people into opportunities. I particularly enjoyed working with young people, helping them recognise their potential, build confidence and access opportunities to develop their skills and move into employment.

Outside of work, I’m a big music lover and enjoy playing guitar. Music has always been a big part of my life, and being involved in it has given me a real appreciation of the value of the arts, both creatively and in bringing people together. I’m excited to be working in a role where I can help champion that value.

I’m interested in building relationships, connecting people and helping organisations make a positive impact. I’m really looking forward to getting to know Arts & Business NI’s members and being part of a network that champions the value of the arts and creativity.

2. Tea or Coffee?

Espresso or Americano in the morning, builders’ tea in the afternoon!

3.What do you do in your spare time?

I’m a big music fan and spend a lot of my spare time listening to music, discovering new artists and playing guitar. I also enjoy going to live gigs and exploring different genres. Outside of music, I enjoy reading (especially short stories and Irish writers), mooching around coffee shops and spending time with family and friends.

4.Have you been to any great arts events recently?

I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy some great arts and culture experiences this year. During a trip to New York, I visited MoMA and the Guggenheim, where I got to see works by some incredible artists, including Van Gogh, Monet and Gabriele Münter. I’ve also enjoyed some live music, seeing The Mountain Goats and The Strokes perform in Dublin. It’s been a great year for experiencing different sides of the arts!

5. What are you looking forward to most in your new role?

I’m most looking forward to getting to know the Arts & Business NI membership and building relationships with a really diverse range of organisations and people.

I’m also excited to learn more about the work happening across Northern Ireland’s arts and business sectors and to play a part in bringing the two together. Ultimately, I’m looking forward to doing work that makes a positive difference while being part of an organisation whose values and mission I really believe in.

I’ll be at our next A&BNI event Impact of Culture in the City on 18 Nov, if you’ve booked a ticket do come and say hello.