Nick Malyan, the Chief Executive of Redhills Durham, has been named as the incoming Chief Executive of Sunderland Culture.
Durham-born Nick became Chief Executive at Redhills in February 2022 after four years of developing the project as programme manager.
He was previously a founding director of the grassroots, creative organisation Empty Shop CIC and held cultural development roles with Durham County Council and New Writing North.
His experience in the culture and heritage sectors also includes work with the Lumiere Festival, Hartlepool’s Arts Great Place and Township Project and was involved in regional programming for the Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition in Durham.
“ It has been a privilege to lead Redhills and work alongside such a dedicated team and passionate partners. Together, we have achieved significant milestones on the road to safeguarding the Miners’ Hall’s future and establishing the charity that will lead Redhills’ arts, heritage and community engagement programmes.”
Nick Malyan
Chair of Redhills, Professor John Tomaney, said
“Nick has steered the charity for the past two and a half years and built its profile in the region. He is committed to cultural development and will be an asset to the Sunderland scene. He is a keen Black Cats supporter and will undoubtedly become well-known in the city.
On behalf of the board of trustees, I wish him the best for his future.”
Professor John Tomaney
Programme Director Ross Forbes will step in as Interim CEO to ensure a smooth transition and business continuity until a successor is appointed. The board and team will continue the vital work of safeguarding the hall on behalf of coalfield communities and developing the charity.
Nick will take up his new role at Sunderland Culture in late September.
What is Sunderland Culture?
Created in 2016, Sunderland Culture brings together its own team with staff from Sunderland City Council and University of Sunderland to deliver a programme of exhibitions, performances, learning and participation, audience development, marketing, and communications across various programmes and venues.
The organisation comprises the three main funders of arts provision in the city Sunderland City Council, University of Sunderland and Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture (MAC) Trust.
Sunderland Culture is funded by Arts Council England through the National Portfolio and with support from public funding schemes and charitable trusts and foundations.