Turner Sims welcomes five new Strategic Board members

Nick Thorne, Co-Chair of the Strategic Board, said: “These appointments come at an important moment for Turner Sims. We are pleased to welcome five highly accomplished individuals whose experience spans arts leadership, audience development, communications, business and governance. Their insight, expertise and networks will strengthen the Board as we support Turner Sims in delivering its artistic ambitions, deepening its public impact and building a sustainable future.” 

Andy Cato is an aerospace professional specialising in project management, business development and research and technology. A lifelong arts enthusiast, he volunteers with SoundCellar Poole and brings commercial expertise, community experience and a passion for modern British jazz. 

Bav Dhanda has 22 years’ experience in marketing and brings strategic insight, creativity and a strong understanding of audiences and communities. Passionate about Southampton, she is a committed advocate for the transformative power of live music and performance. 

Mark Bamping is Director of Marketing & Communications at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, where he also leads corporate partnerships. He previously worked at the London Symphony Orchestra and Aurora Orchestra, and is a music graduate of the University of Southampton. 

Sara Lock is the Director of Audiences at Wiltshire Creative, where she leads marketing and audience development strategies. Sara was formerly Head of Arts Marketing Communications at University of Southampton, Turner Sims. She brings 20 years of experience marketing southwest venues and is passionate about the power of communications to include people.

Dr Tony Stoller CBE is Chair of the Winchester Chamber Music Festival and a former Chair of Orchestras Live. A Visiting Professor at Bournemouth University and former broadcasting regulator, he is the author of Classical Music in the United Kingdom, 1945 to 1995. 

Louise Coysh, Director of Turner Sims, said: “We are delighted to welcome Andy, Bav, Mark, Sara and Tony to the Strategic Board. Each brings exceptional expertise and a shared belief in the power of music to enrich lives and strengthen communities. Their insight and experience will be invaluable as we grow our impact, build new partnerships and shape the future of Turner Sims. I look forward to working with them to ensure Turner Sims remains an ambitious, inclusive and thriving cultural organisation for Southampton and the wider region.”

The appointments mark an important step in Turner Sims’ development, bringing fresh perspectives and extensive experience to its leadership as it continues to build an inclusive world through the joy of music. 

Turner Sims is part of the University of Southampton (an exempt charity) and a National Portfolio Organisation funded by Arts Council England.