Chair of Lowry steps down after 18 year tenure

MCRJourno

The Chair of the arts venue Lowry has stepped down leaving an annual award for one young Salfordian to honour his 18 year tenure.

Sir Rod Aldridge joined Lowry in 2008 as an organisation still finding its place in the Salford community and its role in the arts and culture landscape.

As the most visited attraction in Greater Manchester it was a catalyst for the regeneration of Salford Quays and creation of MediaCityUK.

To honour Sir Rod's legacy and dedication to increasing opportunities for young people, the award created in his name will be given to a young person from Salford who has shown incredible leadership and creativity, as well as entrepreneurial spirit, tenacity and determination.

Sir Rod Aldridge. Credit: Lowry

Speaking of his departure, Sir Rod Aldridge OBE said: "Serving as Chair of Lowry has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

"While I came to Lowry hoping that I could bring valuable experience and know-how, I could never have imagined what Lowry has given me in return.

"It has been an honour to be a part of such a creative, entrepreneurial and passionate team that have such an impact on Salford, Manchester and the wider North West region."

The impactful education, employability, volunteering, and community engagement programmes run by Lowry for underserved people across Greater Manchester contribute £22.4 million in measurable social value while receiving just 6% of public funding.

Lowry stands as a blueprint for how arts, culture and creativity can engage hard to reach communities despite unprecedented strain on arts funding.

With the new award the young person will receive a development bursary and a bespoke, year-long opportunity at Lowry, helping them to achieve their goals by removing barriers and offering bespoke support.

This may include mentoring, training, leadership input and the opportunity to become a Peer Leader supporting other young people and putting leadership into practice.

Nazir Afzal OBE, former Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England and Chief Executive of the country’s Police & Crime Commissioners, will be taking on the role from Sir Rod this month as the incoming Chair of Lowry.

He said: "The passion with which Sir Rod Aldridge advocates for the power and potential of Lowry is nothing short of inspirational and I will take that with me into how I approach this role."