Governance

Robust governance remains the cornerstone of Manchester Camerata’s success. 2024–25 has been a year of succession, consolidation, and continuity – ensuring that the foundations laid in recent years now support sustainable growth and confident leadership for the future.

In January 2025, Nic Hailey CMG succeeded Stephen Dauncey as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Stephen’s extended term, originally designed to guide the organisation through the development and implementation of its refreshed strategy, came to a close after more than seven years of dedicated leadership. His tenure provided the stability and strategic clarity that now underpin Camerata’s artistic and social impact.

Nic’s appointment marks a new chapter, one that builds on those achievements while bringing deep experience of governance, diplomacy, and cultural leadership to the role.

Over the past year, the Board has continued to strengthen Camerata’s internal systems and financial resilience. New measures introduced in 2023-24, including enhanced financial controls and improved reserves management – are now fully embedded, providing greater transparency and oversight across all areas of operation. Regular scenario planning and detailed budget monitoring have helped ensure stability amid an increasingly complex funding environment.

The Board also continued to play an active role in shaping Camerata’s expanding portfolio of work, particularly in relation to the Centre of Excellence for Music and Dementia. As this national initiative moved from concept to implementation, trustees worked closely with the executive team to clarify governance arrangements and ensure that the structure is both legally robust and strategically aligned. The resulting model, with Camerata as the lead charity partner, has simplified operations and reinforced accountability whilst maintaining flexibility for future partnerships.

The year also saw an ongoing focus on board development and performance. Following the 360° appraisal process completed in 2023-24, trustees have implemented a programme of targeted training and reflection to ensure continued high standards of governance. This commitment to learning and improvement ensures that the Board remains forward-looking, diverse in expertise, and united in purpose.

Looking Forward

In 2025-26, Manchester Camerata’s governance focus will be on embedding the new leadership structure, strengthening succession planning across the organisation, and ensuring continued alignment between artistic ambition and financial sustainability.
The Board will also oversee the early phases of the Future Fund and the long-term evaluation of the Centre of Excellence, maintaining its commitment to transparency, accountability, and strategic oversight.