Our Board of Trustees guide and inform our work at The Art House, all bringing their own experience and areas of expertise to the team, we’re extremely grateful for their time and commitment.
Emma Adair (Co-Chair)
Emma has extensive leadership experience in health, social care, criminal justice, and homelessness. She has served as a specialist advisor for local and central government, securing multi-million-pound contracts and establishing partnerships with embassies. Now a strategic and solution consultant, she founded an AI-driven, no-code software company. Based in Wakefield, Emma is passionate about the arts its societal benefits.
Andrew Balchin (Co-Chair)
Andrew has over 20 years experience in public service leadership focusing on improving services and fostering partnerships. He played key roles at Wakefield Council, including as Chief Executive, leading a team of over 5,000 employees. He successfully managed large budgets, negotiated contracts, and championed social care and health services. Andrew became a trustee of The Art House after retiring in 2023.
Dr. Adrian Brooks
Adrian is an entrepreneur with a rich background in the live events industry. He founded several companies, including LiteStructures and Backstage Academy, and co-founded Production Park, a hub for live events innovation. Adrian’s achievements include creating the Astralite trussing system and launching the world’s first arena-sized rehearsal facility. He received an Honorary Doctorate in 2017 for his contributions to business and entertainment and continues to lead ventures in the live events industry.
John Curran BA, MBA
John is a business solutions expert with a focus on efficiency and revenue improvement. He has extensive experience in delivering complex projects in sectors such as entertainment, public services, and professional services. John has been Business Solutions Director at 4OC since 2013, and has provided organisational change support for public service organisations, including Capita and the NHS.
Joanne Peel MSc, FCIPD, PGCC
Joanne has extensive board-level experience, primarily in HR and organisational development. She recently retired as Executive Director for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, where she led strategic HR functions for a 6,000-strong workforce. Joanne has also held senior roles in the Ministry of Justice and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.
Dr. Andrew J. Langley
Andrew is an expert in architecture, design, and heritage, with a focus on community engagement. As a Project Conservation Officer, he promotes conservation and inclusion, while also contributing his academic research. His PhD focused on using participatory mapping to connect marginalized communities with their cultural identity. Andrew also works with The Prince’s Trust and oversees The Art House building.
Philippa Pickersgill BA, CIPD
Philippa is an HR leader with experience in industries like retail, fashion, media, and tech. She has held key positions at DICE, Hearst Magazines, and ASOS, focusing on diversity, talent management, and employee engagement. Philippa is a member of the Social Mobility Foundation and has won awards for employee experience initiatives. She is CIPD qualified and an ICF Executive Coach.
Sally Roads
Sally is an experienced finance professional with a background in manufacturing, retail, fashion, and charity sectors. She excels at building relationships and providing financial insights that support budget management and securing multi-million-pound tenders. Currently a Finance Business Partner for a mental health organisation, she previously served as Head of Finance for Leeds 2023 Year of Culture. Passionate about the arts and its community benefits, Sally enjoys travel, interior design, yoga, and attending galleries, gigs, and theatre.
