Since February, when we announced that Matt Baker will step down as CEO at the end of June, The Stove has been engaged in a carefully considered transition process working with Matt, Stove team and the Board. This has been a period of deep reflection and strategic thinking across the organisation, laying a strong foundation for the future of leadership at The Stove.
We recognise that moving on from founder-led leadership is a pivotal moment for any organisation. Rather than rushing this transition, we are embracing a deliberate and thoughtful approach that honours our values whilst also maintaining day to day operations.
With guidance from international arts consultant Bob Palmer, this process has allowed us to reflect on what leadership means for us today. It has helped us focus on how to best deliver our current three-year business plan while ensuring the long-term relevance and impact of The Stove—all aligned with our core values of creativity, collaboration, and transparency. Crucially, it has also acknowledged that founder succession is a major milestone—one that requires care, time, and collective input.
Over the past 12 weeks, we have completed a comprehensive review of our immediate operational needs and, by temporarily sharing leadership responsibilities across a dedicated board working group and the senior leadership team, we can hold the space for a more in-depth handover period to fully assess our long-term leadership requirements.
With immediate effect, shared leadership responsibilities will be held by:
Creative Strategy
Martin O’Neill, Artistic Director
Contact Martin: [email protected]
Operations & Projects
Graham Rooney, Operations Director
Contact Graham: [email protected]
Finance & People Services
Lindsey Smith, Finance Director
Contact Lindsey: [email protected]
Governance & Board Matters
Lynsey Smith, Chair of the Board of Trustees
Contact Lynsey: [email protected]
Partnerships, Networks & Policy
Katharine Wheeler, Development Director
Contact Katharine: [email protected]
As we move through this important phase, we do so with positivity, openness, and in collaboration with all those involved. We welcome your thoughts and insights as we shape the next chapter for The Stove.
If you have any questions, reflections, or would simply like to connect during this transition period, please don’t hesitate to reach out via [email protected]. While responses may take a little longer than usual, we are committed to open dialogue and will do our best to reply promptly.
