New Chief Executive of Arts Council England

Sir Christopher Frayling, Chair of Arts Council England, today announced the appointment of Alan Davey as the new Chief Executive of Arts Council England.

Alan will take up his new appointment in early 2008 - succeeding Peter Hewitt, who will have been in post as Chief Executive for ten years.

Alan, 46, is currently Director of Culture at the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, a post he has held since 2003 having worked in the Department as head of the arts division since 2001. In an earlier stint at the then Department of National Heritage he was responsible for designing the National Lottery.

Alan is well known for his passionate interest in, and advocacy of, the arts, as well as for his unrivalled knowledge of public policy in this area.

Alan said: "I couldn't be more excited about my new role. The arts in England have never been healthier, more challenging, innovative or popular. I want the Arts Council to be at the forefront of building on that success - working with artists to reach even greater heights, leading the arts with passion and excellence, and forging new partnerships that secure the position of the arts in national life.

"Building on what has been achieved by Peter Hewitt, I am confident that a creative, focused and entrepreneurial Arts Council can do just that. I can't wait to get started."

Sir Christopher Frayling added: "We are delighted that Alan will be joining us in this very significant role as Chief Executive of the Arts Council - significant for the arts in this country and for all who love them.

"Building on the real success of Peter Hewitt's ten years as Chief Executive, Alan will bring inspirational leadership, strategic vision and ambassadorial flair - qualities he possesses in abundance based on his high-level experience with the arts. This really is a milestone for Arts Council England."