Holly Cumming-Wesley appointed Hebrides Ensemble Chief Executive and three new trustees join board
Hebrides Ensemble is pleased to announce the appointment of Holly Cumming‑Wesley as its new Chief Executive. Based in Edinburgh, Holly brings over 16 years’ experience across the cultural and creative sectors. Her career has spanned producing, project leadership and operational management, with previous roles at the BBC Proms, London Sinfonietta and the Royal Academy of Arts, and most recently as Producer at Royal Northern Sinfonia. She is committed to strengthening connections with audiences and communities, and to supporting ensembles to thrive artistically and sustainably.
This appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Hebrides Ensemble, with the recent announcement of the Ensemble’s inclusion in Creative Scotland’s multi-year funding programme. Holly succeeds an interim freelance team, led by Tom Lovatt as Executive Director, and alongside leading the development and delivery of Hebrides Ensemble’s ambitious strategic plan she will build a permanent staff team to create exciting work of the highest quality for a wide range of audiences.
Holly said about her appointment:
“It is a privilege to be joining Hebrides Ensemble at a time of real momentum and focus. Working alongside William Conway, the musicians and team, I’m excited to support the ensemble as it builds on its artistic strengths, deepens its relationships with audiences and partners, and continues to make a distinctive contribution to cultural life in Scotland.”
Holly will take up the post of Chief Executive in May 2026.
Alongside Holly’s appointment Hebrides Ensemble also welcomes three new trustees to its board. Ben Lunn, Jill Jones and Louisa Stanway bring a wealth of expertise and experience that will help shape Hebrides Ensemble’s future direction.
Emma Hay, Chair of trustees said about these recent appointments:
“The Board of Trustees are delighted to welcome Holly to Hebrides Ensemble as Chief Executive Officer. This leadership appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the organisation following Hebrides Ensemble's inclusion in Creative Scotland's Multi-Year Funding Programme. The Board itself is significantly strengthened by these three new members who will bring care, diligence and a wealth of expertise to the organisation. Cementing strong governance and stable leadership will enable the Ensemble to take forward an ambitious programme of work over the coming years increasing presence and contribution into the sector. “
