David has been the Chief Executive officer of Skylight Circus Arts in Rochdale for the past 3.5 years and has played a key role in growing the organisation by launching and fulfilling a 3 year Artistic Development Plan, as well as relaunching the brand identity.

As an award winning Marketing Executive and Brand Strategist, David has worked with companies such as SEGA and Abbey Road Studios to carry out international brand campaigns. With a rich previous background in Marketing and Business Development, David will bring a unique perspective to Burnley Youth Theatre.

This role as Artistic Director/CEO will not be David’s first introduction to Burnley Youth Theatre, as he had the opportunity whilst working in the commercial entertainment sector to deliver a freelance DJ Skills Workshop to disadvantaged young people as part of a residential project early in his career. This experience sparked a desire to one day work within the arts and culture sector.

Burnley Youth Theatre has been led by Trustee, Vicky Holliday (pictured below), who has worked as interim CEO during this shift in leadership. We would like to thank Vicky for her dedication during her time on the the core staff.

This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Burnley Youth Theatre. The organisation has only had 6 leaders throughout its 50 year history, last being Karen Metcalfe, who will now continue at Burnley Youth Theatre on a freelance basis.

Throughout her time as Artistic Director/CEO, Karen positioned the organisation as a beacon of good practice for access and inclusion, directed numerous signature artistic productions, spearheaded important youth-led projects and ensured the organisation’s strong financial position.

Karen has laid important groundwork for David to carry on as the 7th Leader of Burnley Youth Theatre.

David will take up his new role of CEO on January 6th.