Leeds Heritage Theatres announces Dame Dr Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon LLD as New Chair of the Board
Leeds Heritage Theatres (LHT) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dame Dr Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon LLD as its next Chair of the Board of Trustees, following a comprehensive recruitment and interview process.
Dame Linda will formally take up the position in May 2026, succeeding Alan Gay OBE, who concludes his final term as Chair at that time.
Dame Linda brings exceptional experience in leadership, governance, and public service. She served twelve years as Chair of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, overseeing one of the UK’s largest and most complex NHS organisations with a turnover of £1.9 billion and 22,000 staff. In addition, she completed a Review of the NHS Counter Fraud Authority and co-authored the Messenger Review for the Department of Health. Dame Linda has previously held senior roles, including Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Governing Body at the University of Leeds and Deputy Chair of Yorkshire Forward.
Alongside her distinguished public service, Dame Linda has founded and led several successful businesses in marketing, property, and retail, and has been a long-standing advocate for women in leadership through An Inspirational Journey and the 2% Club UK. Her contribution has been recognised through numerous national honours, including her appointment as Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) in 2020, alongside awards such as Yorkshire Woman of the Year and IoD National Director of the Year (2021), the Sunday Times Non Exec Director of the Year (2024), and recently awarded Lifetime Achievement Award in the Yorkshire Post Business Awards.
Dame Linda Pollard LGT auditorium (standing). Credit Ant Robling
Quotes
Leeds Heritage Theatres’ Chief Executive, Vicky Cheetham, said: “Dame Linda’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Leeds Heritage Theatres. Her exceptional leadership experience and deep roots in the region will help us strengthen our role as a creative, inclusive, and resilient organisation at the heart of Leeds’ cultural life. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to build on our ambitions for the future.”
Alan Gay OBE, outgoing Chair of the Board, said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Leeds Heritage Theatres through a period of challenge and transformation. I am delighted to be handing over to Dame Linda, whose exceptional leadership experience and deep commitment to Leeds will help guide the organisation into its next exciting chapter.”
Dame Dr Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon LLD said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Leeds Heritage Theatres at such an exciting time in its journey. The arts are central to the identity and ambition of Leeds, and the venues play a vital role in bringing people together, nurturing creativity and celebrating our shared heritage. I look forward to working with the Board, Chief Executive and wider team to build on this proud legacy and ensure these remarkable venues continue to inspire and engage future generations.”
Leeds Heritage Theatres looks forward to formally welcoming Dame Linda to the organisation in the new year.
Image caption (main image): Dame Linda Pollard LGT auditorium (sat). Credit Ant Robling.