Working alongside BOA Group Chief Executive, Kate Tague, Graham will help to set the vision and shape the strategy of the Group, which delivers secondary and further education pathways in the creative, digital and performing arts sectors in Birmingham.

After a successful career in senior positions across the global arts world, Graham is joining the BOA Group to support their work to inspire emerging talent across the Midlands. His impressive resume includes Director of Arts for the British Council, Artistic Director at the Barbican Centre and Music Projects Director at London’s South Bank Centre, as well as twelve years as a Radio Producer on BBC Radio 3. Graham was awarded a CBE in 2010 for services to the Arts and most recently has completed eight years as Chair of the charity Help Musicians.

Supported by the Ormiston Trust and Birmingham City University, the BOA Group operates three educational settings and the Old Rep Theatre, offering exciting and unique educational pathways for learners with interests in performing arts, creative and digital technologies. 

Commenting on his appointment, Sheffield said: “I am honoured and delighted to join the BOA Group as Chair of the Board. BOA Groups offers a compelling opportunity for young people and aspiring arts talent from across the region to train and perform in industry standard facilities.

“With more and more investment into TV, film, music and theatre in Birmingham, plus the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on our doorstep, it will be inspiring to be a part of the arts community at BOA Group and across the city.”

Welcoming Graham to his new role, BOA Group Chief Executive, Kate Tague, said: “Here at the BOA Group, we aim to inspire our students to ‘Imagine Everything’ and ensure they leave us with the qualifications, technical knowledge and employability skills they require for the next stage of their lives.

“Graham brings with him a wealth of experience within the performing arts sector and shares our vision to inspire emerging talent across our region. We are delighted that Graham is joining us at an exciting time for the BOA Group as we go from strength to strength and expand our bespoke educational offering.”