Turner Sims Announces Board Leadership Transition

Turner Sims, the University of Southampton’s music venue, today announced that Sarah Robertson will be stepping down from the role of Co-chair of the Board after eight years of service. The Board has appointed Nick Thorne as the new Co-chair, who will share the role with Sue Littlemore, effective 1 April 2026.

During her tenure, Sarah has been instrumental in guiding the organisation through significant milestones, including driving the ambition of the Transition Plan, securing a successful Arts Council England NPO renewal, and celebrating the venue’s 50th anniversary in November 2025. Her contribution has left a lasting and positive impact on Turner Sims.

Sarah Robertson said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Co‑Chair of the Turner Sims Board. Over the past years, I have witnessed extraordinary dedication, creativity and resilience across our organisation and our partners. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together – strengthening our cultural leadership, deepening our engagement with communities, and championing opportunities for children and young people in the city and region.

It is clear to me that University of Southampton understands and champions the civic role of arts and culture and that University leaders can see the difference the work of Turner Sims makes. Their continued investment in the venue and its programmes, alongside other key funders like Arts Council England, squarely shows this commitment.

The team at Turner Sims, led with passion and purpose by Louise Coysh, is talented, strengthened and determined to bring the best musical experiences to the widest audiences.

As I step down, I do so with complete confidence in the direction of travel and with gratitude for the inspiring colleagues and collaborators who have made this journey so meaningful and joyful.”

The Board expressed its gratitude for Sarah’s dedicated service, commitment, and long-standing contribution to the organisation’s strategic direction.

Sue Littlemore, Co-chair, said, “On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Sarah for her outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment, and generosity of spirit. Her vision has helped shape our strategic direction and supported the organisation through a period of growth and renewal. We are delighted to welcome Nick as our new Co-chair. His experience, insight, and passion for cultural transformation will be invaluable as we continue to build on the strong foundations Sarah has helped put in place.”

From April, board member Nick Thorne, CEO of Orchestras for All, steps up as Co-chair. Nick brings extensive experience in the music sector, having served in key leadership roles.

Nick Thorne said, “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Co-chair of Turner Sims. As a proud music alum of the University of Southampton, I’ve had a relationship with Turner Sims for 20 years – as a musician, as president of the university wind orchestra, in my professional work in the music industry, and of course as an audience member!

I look forward to working closely with the team and the Strategic Board to build on the strong foundations Sarah Robertson has brilliantly laid, enabling wider audiences and musicians to access this wonderful venue and programmes that have a positive impact in Southampton and across the wider region.”