Q Theatre is delighted to announce the appointment of two new directors to its board, Tim Dowson and Simon Harger-Forde, both start in an official capacity this month.
Tim has a long association with Q, and is an experienced executive, project leader and strategic adviser with more than 40 years' experience across New Zealand's theatre, performing arts, convention, museum and major events sectors.
With a foundation in technical theatre and production management, Tim brings a practical understanding of the creative process, alongside extensive experience in governance, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, risk management and organisational leadership.
He has led the design, construction and operational delivery of major venues and events including Q Theatre, the Bruce Mason Centre, the Aotea Centre, Tāmaki Paenga Hira | Auckland War Memorial Museum, the New Zealand International Convention Centre, the World Masters Games 2017, and Queen’s Wharf during Rugby World Cup 2011.
Simon brings significant experience in social change and public health. Over the past 25 years, and in multiple markets, he has worked in policy, consulting, innovation, governance, planning and funding roles, as well as serving as a clinician and manager.
In 2012, he founded social change agency Innovate, now known as Third Story. Since then, he has been an adviser and board member of a number of social change organisations through his four years with the health practice at PwC.
Simon has a life-long passion for performing arts and has experienced many well-being benefits of connecting individuals and community together through powerful storytelling.
Q Theatre Board Chair, Penelope Barr-Sellers said the appointments represent an exciting addition to the organisation’s governance capability.
“We’re delighted to have Tim and Simon join the Q board. Their respective skills will add depth and breadth to an already high-performing team.
“Their appointments come on the cusp of our 15th birthday celebrations as we reflect on all those who enabled us to achieve this milestone, as well as consider what more we do to strengthen and sustain Q for the next 15 years and beyond,” she adds.
Tim and Simon will join directors, Penelope Barr-Sellers (Chair), Kylie Sealy (Deputy Chair), Andrew Smith, Justin Lewis, and Vicki Caisley.
Q Theatre opened in August 2011 as a purpose-built, multi-form performing arts venue in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.
Q Theatre is a vital enabler of creativity and storytelling, in the performing arts ecosystem, annually with 448 performances, staging 150 productions, and entertaining over 69,000 visitors.
ENDS
