Michael Elliott

Biography

Michael has had an extensive career in leadership in the arts, culture, and tourism.

Chief Executive of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (2015-2020); Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (2011-2014); Director, Culture at the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (2008-2011); Associate Cultural Director for Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture (2006-2008); Chief Executive of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic (2001-2008); Chief Executive of the Heart of England Tourist Board (1996-2000); Chief Executive of West Midlands Arts Board (1989-1996).

Earlier in his career Michael had undertaken research in education management, been special adviser to a member of the European Parliament and worked in the management of higher education and regional arts funding.

He is a Trustee and Board member of the Birmingham Royal Ballet and a Pro-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton.

Michael has previously served as Chair of the Board of the Belgrade Theatre Coventry; Deputy Chairman of the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield; a member of the Board of the Association of British Orchestras; Chair of the Governing Body of the University of Wolverhampton; Treasurer of the European Forum for the Arts and Heritage; Chair of the Chief Officer Groups of both the Regional Arts Boards and Regional Tourist Boards; a member of the first Government Tourism Strategy Group; and member of the governing bodies of further education colleges and schools in Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Walsall, and Hereford.

He has been awarded honorary doctorates by Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Wolverhampton for his contribution to arts and culture.