Portsmouth Creates is delighted to announce the appointment of six new trustees to its Board, strengthening the organisation’s strategic leadership.

 

Joining the existing Board, the new members bring with them extensive experience across the arts, business, commercial, education, and community sectors. Together, they will help guide Portsmouth Creates in its mission to champion creativity, empower local voices, and support a thriving, inclusive cultural economy.

 

The new trustees are:

 

Claire Budden – A senior leader with extensive experience across local government and the NHS, now leading the Commercial function for the Royal Navy. Claire brings strong governance expertise and a passion for the power of creativity to connect and inspire communities.

Matthew Ponsford – A Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and strategic HR leader with over twenty years’ experience across the charity, hospitality, and professional services sectors. Matthew’s expertise in leadership, inclusion, and organisational development will help drive a sustainable and people-focused approach to growth.

Daniel O’Brien – Managing Director of Citrus Facilities Management and a passionate advocate for local enterprise. Daniel brings commercial insight and a commitment to strengthening links between business and creativity in Portsmouth.

Lynne Dick – Lives in Portsmouth and has more than three decades of experience across the arts and heritage sectors, with a deep commitment to inclusion and artist-led community engagement. Lynn is currently Head of Programme (Engagement and Learning) at John Hansard Gallery, University of Southampton.

Paul Gorst – Business Development Manager at Gunwharf Quays and a seasoned retail professional with a wealth of international experience. Paul combines commercial leadership with a strong belief in social impact and community partnership.

Jonathan Folkard – Founder and Creative Director of Danger Danger, a design, illustration, and animation studio based in Waterlooville. Jonathan champions local creative talent and brings valuable insight from over fifteen years in the creative industries.

 

These new appointments build on the strength and dedication of the existing Board, which continues to guide Portsmouth Creates’ strategic vision.

 

Bernie Topham, Portsmouth Creates Chair, (in the feature image) said:

“We’re delighted to welcome our new Board members, each of whom brings unique experience, insight, and energy to the organisation. Their collective expertise will help us continue to shape Portsmouth Creates, grow the city’s creative sector, and ensure that creativity remains at the heart of Portsmouth’s identity and development. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our current and former Board members for their outstanding contribution and commitment. Their hard work and vision have been instrumental in building Portsmouth Creates into the vibrant, collaborative organisation it is today.”

With this strengthened leadership team, Portsmouth Creates is excited to continue championing Portsmouth’s creative sector and to build on the momentum already achieved.