The Marlowe Theatre has announced the appointment of William “Bill” Bush CBE as its new Chair, as the organisation prepares to deliver ambitious plans for future growth across its artistic, educational and community programmes.
Bush brings extensive experience in public policy, communications, governance, sport, media and culture, having spent almost two decades at the Premier League as Executive Director and Senior Adviser.
During his time at the Premier League, Bush led on areas including intellectual property, public policy, government and EU relations, communications, fan engagement and community programmes. Prior to that, he served as a Special Adviser to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and was Head of Research for BBC News.
Alongside his executive career, Bush has held a number of cultural leadership roles and currently serves as Deputy Chair of English Touring Opera and a member of the National Council of Arts Council England.
As Chair of the Marlowe Theatre Board, Bush will lead the Board of Trustees and work closely with Chief Executive Deborah Shaw and the executive team to support the theatre’s long-term ambitions.
Bill Bush said: “It is a real privilege to be appointed Chair of the Marlowe Theatre at such a pivotal point in its journey. The Marlowe Theatre champions creativity, making a real difference in the lives of people across Kent and beyond.
I look forward to working with Deborah, the Board and the talented team as we deliver the theatre’s ambitious plans for the future and ensure the Marlowe continues to inspire audiences, develop new talent and strengthen its impact in the community.”
Deborah Shaw, Chief Executive of the Marlowe Theatre, welcomed the appointment as the organisation embarks on a significant expansion programme, including a new creative learning centre, increased investment in community engagement and the continued growth of its presenting and producing activities.
Shaw said: “We are delighted to welcome Bill as our new Chair at such an exciting time for the Marlowe Theatre. We are entering a period of significant growth, with development of a new creative learning centre, expansion of our presenting and home-produced programme and significant investment in our work with young people and communities.
“As we develop and deliver our new business plan, Bill’s leadership and experience will be invaluable and I look forward to working closely with him.”
Bush succeeds Jonathan Church, the theatre’s founding Chair, who has led the Marlowe Theatre Trust since 2017 and helped steer the organisation through the challenges of the pandemic and a period of continued success.
Deborah Shaw added: “I would like to thank Jonathan for his exceptional contribution as our founding Chair, leading the Board since 2017 and helping guide the Marlowe through a transformational period as an independent charitable trust. His deep industry knowledge, generosity of spirit and steady leadership have been invaluable. We are enormously grateful for everything he has done, and we wish him every success for the future.”
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