Who We Are

Claire’s creative and strategic approach empowers artists and arts organisations to understand their purpose and thrive in their careers and lives. Whether it’s funding that comes exactly at the right time in an artist’s life, giving international public art platforms to raise the profile in our cities or leading an innovative research programme in the third sector, Claire strives to make a difference to the lives of creatives in the UK. Working across public (Chelmsford City Council, London Legacy Development and Olympic Delivery Authority) and third sector organisations (Culture Chelmsford, Southampton Forward, Help Musicians, Foundation for Future London, Arts Council England), Claire has over 25 years experience in the sector.

Jess specialises in working with community groups and young people through creative engagement. She has worked across culture, education and charity sectors, including roles at the Barbican, Croydon Youth Service and the British Red Cross, where she has developed her approaches to collaborative decision‑making and co-produced programming. Her work focuses on creating the conditions for people to feel safe, valued and able to shape culture.

I'm an experienced qualified Actuary that has practiced on three continents, dealing with insurance and financial business from around the globe in a variety of roles. My global experience is something I can lean on to contribute unique views to problem solving.

I have a passion for promoting culture while being a strong advocate of diversity and inclusion.

My varied international experience means I can work with multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams with ease and adapt both the content and style of my work so our output is relevant to the entity and its environment. 

From 2023 Arthur was one of the 3 founding members of SPARK!, helping to establish the branding and philosophy. He was instrumental in organising the Place Partnership Bid.

Since then Arthur has taken a strategic role on SPARK! projects such as joining the steering group for the gaming festival and influencing the refresh of the Museum of Chelmsford's collection policy.

Arthur has a particular interest in film, history, local heritage and a passion for table top gaming.

Liz has had a career in local and central government, focusing on advocacy, strategy and advisory roles. This has included being Private Secretary to a number of Secretaries of State, and managing the Communities, Local Government Reform and Devolution programme at the Treasury. Since Autumn 2022, Liz has worked for Culture Chelmsford, leading on governance and operations, as well as Ignite Chelmsford, supporting the local creative community.

Bucky is a queer artist, writer and community manager based in Essex. They are passionate about developing spaces for the under-represented, championing differences and embracing the odd and unusual. They have an extensive background in social media marketing and community development for a range of clients, from independent businesses to large international clients such as Disney, FX and National Geographic. Their current work with Ignite Chelmsford allows them to nurture Chelmsford's creative community and grow a thriving, engaged network of local artists.

As an Experience and Visitor Programme Manager for the National Trust, Sarah is focussed on sparking curiosity in the environmental, heritage and cultural delights Essex and Suffolk.

Stephanie is an experienced finance professional. Currently Director of Finance at Essex County Council, she has worked in Chelmsford for over 10 years. With previous senior finance experience at two London Boroughs, Stephanie brings to our Board vital knowledge and understanding of strategic financial management and financial frameworks.

Gurpreet is an experienced educator with 15 years in primary education; she also teaches English to migrant women and leads youth and community programs. As a forest school leader and Bhangra dance instructor, Gurpreet utilises arts and nature to foster connections and build confidence. She is passionate about celebrating diversity and working collaboratively to create inclusive, positive change across communities.

Emma Barrow is experienced in running cultural programmes, marketing, communications and fundraising for well-being and cultural organisations.

Isobel is the first Chair of SPARK! (Chelmsford’s youth group for 13-25 year olds).

She has contributed to the development of the group since it started as an LCEP (Local Cultural Education Partnership).

From planning and being part of events, festivals and workshops, Isobel continues to push for change in Chelmsford’s creative sectors.

Isobel also has a background in performing arts, studying Acting at University.

Since 2015, Jaiden has worked with many local youth and cultural organisations such as New Generation Development Agency, Young Essex Assembly, YMCA, Action For Family Carers and the Museum of Chelmsford.

Jaiden is also a long-serving member of Spark! youth forum, plus a board member of Chelmsford City Ethnicities Partnership (CCEP). As a local entrepreneur, he established Night Til Dawn in 2023 to connect local communities, promote culture and heritage through music events and projects.

DescriptCaroline is a development professional with over twenty years of fundraising experience, the last twelve of which have been in the cultural sector. As Development Manager for national music charity and producer Orchestras Live, Caroline develops relationships with funders to bring about equity of access to orchestral music, and uses her overview of the arts funding landscape to provide advice to partners. Previously, Caroline held fundraising roles at homelessness charity Crisis and children’s charity Honeypot.

Adam is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) who is currently System Engineering Lead and Product Design Authority for Teledyne e2v. As a volunteer, he is also a STEM Ambassador, a former President of the Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society (CSES) and a governor of Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS). As a Spark! Champion, Adam brings experience of engaging the community in, and promoting the cultural importance of, science, technology and creativity.