News

Arts & Business NI CEO To Step Down Later This Year

24 Jun 2025

After 17 years of dedicated leadership, Mary Nagele has announced that she will step down from her role as Chief Executive Officer at Arts & Business NI later this year. The search is now underway to appoint a new CEO to lead the charity into its next chapter - continuing the vital work of strengthening NI’s art sector for the future.

Arts & Business NI is a charity and creative membership network which advocates for the value of the arts, ignites cultural-corporate partnerships, invests in innovation and works to strengthen the NI arts sector.

Reflecting on her decision to step down, Mary shared: “It has been a privilege and a joy to lead A&BNI for the past 17 years. I’ve worked with truly amazing people - our dedicated staff and board team, incredible members and supporters - who bring such creativity, passion, and commitment to everything they do. Arts & Business NI proudly champions the value of the arts, for individuals, communities, and wider society. As I step away later this year to pursue new opportunities, I’m heartened that the organisation is in such a strong and ambitious position, with a bold strategy that sets the stage for continued growth and impact.”

During Mary’s tenure as CEO, A&BNI has forged its own path, becoming an independent charity and company in 2011. Since then, Arts & Business NI has invested over £1.8 million in match-funding for creative corporate-cultural partnerships through its Arts Council NI funded Investment Programme, supported it’s corporate and cultural members to achieve their ambitions, and launched Blueprint—a £1.4 million financial growth programme for the NI arts sector.

Damian McParland Chairman of the Board at A&BNI said: “On behalf of the board and team, I want to thank Mary for her outstanding service to Arts & Business NI. Mary is a passionate ambassador and supporter for the arts and creativity. Under her guidance, the charity has successfully navigated change and challenges and has expanded its reach and impact —inspiring private sector support and investment in the arts.  As we look to the future, we know that the arts will continue to play a vital role in the social and economic wellbeing of our businesses, communities, and places. Arts & Business NI is in a strong position to build on Mary’s legacy, championing the value of creativity while strengthening capacity across the creative sector. We wish Mary every success in the next chapter of her leadership journey and know that her professionalism and passion will continue to make a difference.”

Applications are now open for the position of CEO and will close on 6 August at 3pm. If you have the vision, drive and ambition to lead the future direction of Arts & Business NI, building on the organisation's strong foundations, click here to view the candidate information pack.