Leading arts organisation Brixton House has announced significant changes to its executive leadership team. Delia Barker, who has been serving as the interim Managing Director, has now been confirmed in a new role as CEO. Delia’s extensive experience and commitment to the arts have been pivotal during her tenure, driving the organisation’s recent successes and setting a strong path for the future.
With decades of senior level experience in organisational leadership and positive culture change, Delia’s previous roles include Director of the prestigious English National Ballet School, Director of Programmes at world renowned The Roundhouse and a long tenure as Chair of Studio Wayne McGregor.
Alongside this announcement, Ruth Hawkins, currently interim Head of Programming and Producing has been promoted to the role of Executive Creative Producer. Ruth, who joined Brixton House as Senior Producer and Dramaturg since its opening in 2021, has played a crucial role in supporting and shaping the theatre’s programming and artistic delivery.
Her creativity and innovative approach have been shown in notable works such as the commission of Julian Knxx’s film and live performance “Black Corporeal (Breathing by Numbers)” and the development of Housemates Festival, a commitment to support artists locally and nationally, developed from the first bites Ovalhouse model.
With over 15 years in the arts and culture sector, including roles at the Royal Court Theatre, Ovalhouse Theatre, The Donmar Warehouse and The Roundhouse, Ruth’s appointment promises to further strengthen Brixton House’s unique artistic voice. The organization anticipates dynamic new commissions within the community, new associate companies, and continued collaboration with artistic voices.
These leadership changes come as Brixton House continues to build on the successes of the past two years, with a commitment to enhancing its profile, delivering meaningful impact, and building financial resilience. The organisation is also preparing for future growth with a search for a new Chief Operating Officer and a Commercial Director.
As Brixton House looks to the future, it bids farewell to Gary Johnson, who has served as Executive Director for the past eight years. He leaves to take up a new role as Chief Operating Officer for the Academy of Contemporary Music.
The leadership changes at Brixton House signal a dynamic new chapter for the organisation, poised to continue its mission of driving creative excellence and community engagement.
Reflecting on her appointment, Delia said:
“I am thrilled to be taking on the role of CEO at Brixton House. Over the past two years, I’ve seen the incredible potential and passion within our community. Brixton is a vibrant and diverse community with so many untold stories and unique voices. Brixton House feels like it’s in the right place at the right time.
“I look forward to continuing our work – to be a venue that offers opportunities for impactful cultural experiences through arts that truly reflect, represent and celebrate the richness of our culture.”
Delia Barker
In light of the announcement, Ruth said:
“Having been part of the core opening team I am excited to step into this new role and continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve creatively at Brixton House. Supporting our community’s stories and talents, and creating a home for local audiences are vital to the venue thriving and where my passion as a producer has always been and I am committed to ensuring they are at the forefront of everything we do. From my time at Ovalhouse the move to Brixton was always going to be an exciting one. We are learning and evolving, and I am excited to continue to guide Brixton House as we develop our position in the local, arts and cultural landscape.”
Ruth Hawkins