We are delighted to announce that Virginie Giles has stepped into the role of Chair. Virginie previously served on our Consortium and joined the Board in October 2023. She brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role.
Virginie is a strategic marketing leader with a passion for making culture, creativity, and opportunity accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. Virginie is committed to supporting Ideas Test’s mission to create meaningful cultural experiences that connect communities and change lives. As well as their work in marketing and strategic leadership, Virginie has played an active role in shaping Medway’s cultural identity. As a Place Manager for Medway and Lead Communications for Medway’s UK City of Culture 2025 bid, she developed a deep understanding of the area’s creative landscape and the transformative role culture can play in regeneration, community pride, and economic growth. This experience reinforced her belief that culture-led investment is essential and that access to creativity should be embedded within everyday community life.
Virginie said, “Having seen first-hand the impact that creative programmes can have on confidence, wellbeing, and access to opportunity, I am delighted to have been appointed Chair to help champion Ideas Test, an organisation that is breaking down barriers to participation in the arts. I believe culture should never feel exclusive, and are proud to support Ideas Test in delivering inclusive, community-led programmes that empower people across Medway and Swale.”
As his term comes to an end, we would like to sincerely thank Jatin Patel for his leadership, time, and commitment during his six-year term as Chair.
Please join us in thanking Jatin for his valuable contribution and welcoming Virginie to her new role.