Appointees with backgrounds spanning Meta, Comparethemarket.com and Apple bring powerful expertise in data science, commercial innovation and strategic transformation.
Norwich Theatre has announced the appointment of three exceptional Non-Executive Directors to its wholly owned commercial subsidiary, Norwich Theatre Services, strengthening the organisation at a pivotal moment in its growth.
As one of the UK’s leading cultural institutions and a creative powerhouse for the East of England, Norwich Theatre is entering a new strategic phase, building on rising audiences, a resilient self-subsidy model and a nationally recognised commitment to innovation, social impact and creative engagement.
These new appointments bring significant expertise in commercial development, data-driven insight and entrepreneurial strategy, bolstering the organisation’s long-term resilience and ambition as it prepares for its next chapter.
They join the board, chaired by James Cowen (Trustee) alongside Rob Carter (Trustee), Stephen Crocker (CEO & Creative Director), Nick Lloyd (Vice Chair of Trustees), Becci Winton (Finance Director & CRO) and Stephen Wright (Commercial Director & COO).
Trustee of Norwich Theatre & Chair of Norwich Theatre Services, James Cowen, said:
“Norwich Theatre has built a remarkable reputation for combining artistic excellence with an entrepreneurial approach to sustaining the arts. These appointments bring exceptional expertise from global organisations and fast-moving commercial environments, and I’m thrilled to welcome Chaminga, Helen and Matt to the Board.
“Their insights will help us think differently, challenge ourselves and ensure Norwich Theatre continues to thrive as a bold and resilient cultural institution for the East of England.”
Meet the New Non-Executive Directors
Chaminga Chandratillake – Data, Analytics & AI leader
Chaminga’s career spans engineering, data and large-scale organisations. Originally a mechanical engineer, he shifted focus to Analytics and Data science, first at Tesco, working across multiple parts of the business and leading pioneering work applying advanced analytics to challenges such as loss prevention and operational performance. He later served as Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Sainsbury’s group, where he was responsible for embedding data at the heart of decision making and democratising access to data for the organisation at large. From Sainsbury’s, Chaminga joined Meta as a Data Science Director, leading teams applying AI and advanced data science to the development of new advertising products and consumer experiences.
Alongside his professional career, Chaminga is passionate about inclusion and widening opportunity. He is a director of Unity FC in Milton Keynes, a grassroots community football club focused on creating inclusive opportunities for young people through sport.
“My career has focused on using data and technology to help organisations better understand people and the world around them. I’m passionate about the role the arts can play in bringing communities together and making culture accessible to everyone. Institutions like Norwich Theatre create spaces where creativity, connection and new ideas can flourish and I’m looking forward to supporting the organisation in making all creative experiences have wide reaching positive impact.”
Helen Phipps – Commercial Director, Comparethemarket.com
Helen is senior executive with more than 20 years’ experience in sales and marketing leadership. Recognised for inspiring teams to deliver exceptional results in face paced, competitive environments, Helen has a proven track record in shaping commercial strategies that drive revenue growth and market share.
With deep expertise in partner strategy, relationship management and data driven decision making, she is skilled at navigating operational and cultural change to meet evolving consumer demand and business challenges. Known for an authentic and collaborative leadership style, Helen prioritises inclusivity, transparency and customer satisfaction, whilst building high performing teams and long-term sustainable partnerships.
“What drew me to Norwich Theatre was the sheer energy and ambition of Stephen and the team, and their commitment to ensuring creativity has a real and lasting impact. As a passionate advocate for the arts and with Norfolk as my home, I’m delighted to join the Board and look forward to helping shape and support their bold, inclusive vision for the future.”
Matt Key – Business Director for Northern Europe, Apple
Matt is a senior leader with a track record of helping businesses transform through the innovative use of technology. He has more than 30 years of experience in roles across a broad range of sectors. Throughout his career he has successfully helped businesses grow, improve the way they approach their markets, and enabled the creation of repeatable solutions. He presently runs Apple’s Northern European Business Region and their International Majors Accounts, Industries & Partners.
Prior to Apple, he worked for Kinetik, a London based Venture Capital fund with investments in ARRIVAL, a manufacturer of smart electric commercial vehicles, and Everynet, an operator of low power wide area networks supporting the Internet of Things (IoT). Before that he ran the Global IoT Business for Vodafone and led the UK Enterprise division for both Vodafone in the UK and Cable & Wireless Worldwide. Other experience included working for Siemens IT Solutions and Services, Capita and Barclays.
“I’m delighted to join the board of Norwich Theatre. Having spent my life and career in the UK, I’ve seen how vital Arts organisations are in keeping our towns and cities vibrant, creative and connected. Norwich Theatre is an exemplar in this regard; it opens doors for people of all backgrounds and cultures, builds confidence in communities and brings world leading arts to audiences local and beyond who might not otherwise experience them. At a time when the arts are under real pressure across the UK, I feel a deep responsibility to use my experience in innovation, business, digital engagement, and long-term strategy to help ensure that theatre not only endures here in Norwich but continues to thrive as a beacon for the region and for the country.”
Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, Stephen Crocker said:
“Norwich Theatre is entering an ambitious new era defined by creativity, innovation and the continued evolution of our unique business model. As one of only a handful of major regional theatres operating independently and without regular public subsidy, our success relies on bold thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit that drives both our artistic vision and our commercial strength.
“These new Non-Executive Directors bring precisely the insight and energy we need at this moment. Their experience in transformation, commercial partnerships and intelligent use of data will help us unlock new opportunities, strengthen our resilience, and expand the reach and impact of our charitable mission. I’m delighted to welcome them to the Norwich Theatre Services Board as we shape the next stage of our journey with confidence and purpose.”
