Today, Phil George, Chair of Arts Council of Wales made the following statement:
“It is with huge regret that I have to announce Sian Tomos’s decision to retire on grounds of ill health. Very sadly, since her appointment to the post of Chief Executive in June, Sian has suffered debilitating health issues. Unfortunately, she has come to the difficult conclusion that she cannot undertake the demanding role of Chief Executive and deliver the work in the way that she had imagined in the foreseeable future. It is Sian’s firm view that the Arts Council of Wales staff and the arts sector in Wales deserve a strong and vibrant leader in place as soon as possible to guide them through this most challenging of times. With this in mind she has decided that the right thing to do is to step aside now rather than prolong the uncertainty.
“In her email to me yesterday evening, Sian said ‘I remain a massive supporter of Council and all of the staff. I will miss them all very much indeed and can only wish them the very best for the challenging times ahead’. Sian was to have taken up the role on 6th September following Nick Capaldi’s departure from post at the end of August after 13 years in the role.
“All of us at the Arts Council of Wales will miss Sian deeply. She has been an outstanding and caring colleague who has made a major impact on the arts in Wales. I know we wish her most warmly the best progress with her health and look forward to seeing her at events and gatherings in the future.
“This situation will be discussed in the special Council meeting tomorrow and we shall begin the process of seeking a new Chief Executive.”
END 7 September 2021