Liverpool art gallery names ex-BFI Southbank leader as one of two co-chairs

Liverpool-based contemporary arts gallery, the Bluecoat, has appointed the former director of BFI Southbank to replace its departing chair.

EDDIE BERG, who is also the founder and former chief executive of the multi-arts space, the FACT Centre in Liverpool, will head up the Bluecoat board of trustees in a co-chair role alongside Dr MAUREEN ROYCE.

Royce was, until recently, working at Liverpool John Moores University, and specialises in education on HR, leadership, and equality.

The co-chairing duo replace PETER MEARNS, who leaves after nine years at the Bluecoat.

The gallery’s team has credited Mearns with overseeing the refurbishment of its foyer and reception area, known as ‘the Hub’, and helping to steer the organisation through the Covid pandemic.

MARY CLOAKE, chief executive of the Bluecoat, said: “Maureen and Eddie’s combined expertise will advance Bluecoat’s position as a strong influence within the Liverpool region’s growing cultural sector. I very much look forward to working with them.”

“We are all immensely grateful to Peter for his dedication and support of Bluecoat through a period of immense change and progress,” she added. “Myself, and my colleagues, would like to express our gratitude to him for his lasting contribution to the Bluecoat. “