Following her decision to step down as CEO at the end of 2021, the Board would like to express its sincere thanks to Veronica Pardo for her vision and determination, which has opened new horizons for MAV over the past three years. As well as strengthening the development of diverse artists and enabling them to create compelling new work, Veronica has led a long-overdue transformation in the arts sector, encouraging diverse artistic practices and giving voice to those on the margins.

Drawing from her own lived experience as a leader of colour, Veronica has centred culturally diverse artists and communities as the key to MAV’s mission to promote equity and self-determination in the arts.

It takes great strength, energy and adaptability to be a leader in this highly fluid and contested space, especially in these times of COVID-19. Veronica has done so with aplomb. Her many achievements include implementing a new vision and strategy for MAV, securing an unprecedented level of funding to ensure our financial stability for years to come, creating new platforms for cultural practice with the capacity to transform and securing employment opportunities for creatives of colour within and outside of MAV.

Veronica has been instrumental in the development of MAV’s role as a change agent in the sector, with the design of resources for cultural equity that have enabled radical new conversations across our sector.

Veronica has skilfully navigated challenging times, leaving MAV a stronger, well-respected organisation. The Board is saddened that Veronica has decided to step aside, but we share her passion for enabling opportunities for cultural leaders from our communities. This requires a commitment to change, and capacity for leaders to let go. We wish Veronica the very best for the future.

With these firm foundations in place, the Board looks forward to a dynamic recruitment process to identify the next organisational leader to help realise our ambitious strategic goals for equity and justice in the arts.

The MAV Board will commence a recruitment process over the coming weeks. We ask any interested parties to subscribe to the MAV e-bulletin for further updates.

Michael van Vliet
Chairperson
MAV Board