Jazz Hands CIC (managing and operating the Palace Theatre in Paignton) is excited to welcome four new board members who bring a wealth of experience across diverse disciplines, including public, private, and cultural sectors. Their expertise will help guide and drive the organisation forward, focusing on sustainability and enhancing our contribution to the community. These new members are committed to fostering stakeholder and business partnerships and will play a vital role in championing strategic development initiatives for Jazz Hands CIC.
Claire Gibson has over 25 years of experience in economic development and sustainability in the South West. As the head of CRG Consultants, she specialises in creating place-based strategies and fostering business growth through cross-sector partnerships. Claire has held leadership roles, including managing a public body and serving as a Governor at Plymouth Marjon University and she is currently on the Board of Active Devon. Claire is committed to generating long-term economic and social value, and is passionate about the mission of Jazz Hands to expand its impact.
Jo Loosemore is a broadcaster, curator, and actor with a strong interest in history and theatre. At the BBC, she produced notable radio dramas such as “World War One at Home” and “From Brazil to the Battlefield.” She also contributed to the Listening Project for BBC Radio 4 and created the podcast “Red Earth,” focusing on the 1943 evacuation of the South Hams. An ARIAS finalist and British Podcast Awards judge, Jo has curated significant exhibitions, including “Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy.” She is a Visiting Fellow at the University of Plymouth, and has acted in several productions at the Palace Theatre.
Ian Piper CBE is the former Chief Executive of the Ebbsfleet Development Corporation and a strategic advisor with 40 years of experience. A Chartered Surveyor, he has spent the past 15 years in executive roles focusing on housing and regeneration. Ian led the development of a Garden City at Ebbsfleet, planning for up to 15,000 homes. Previously, he held senior positions at Homes England and the South West Regional Development Agency. A Devon resident for over 25 years, Ian is actively involved in his local community.
Carl Wyard is the Head of Economy at Torbay Council, where he leads initiatives aimed at sustainable economic growth and innovation. He focuses on partnerships with businesses and universities to develop impactful programs in skills and regeneration. With expertise in funding and policy, Carl supports high-growth sectors like advanced manufacturing and digital industries. He is committed to creating inclusive economic opportunities and tackling youth unemployment. Additionally, Carl has joined the Palace Theatre Board to enhance the role of arts and culture in local economic vitality.
We are also making changes to the management team. Deirdre Makepeace will retire from her operational role at the end of June and transition to the board as Director of Finance. Her eight years as Commercial Director, combined with her extensive business experience, will be vital for the future sustainability and success of Jazz Hands CIC. Maureen McAllister will move into the role of Chief Executive, marking a significant milestone for the organisation as it continues to evolve and expand its impact. This leadership change reflects Jazz Hands CIC’s commitment to growth and innovation in its mission.
Colin Spencer Halsey, Chair of Jazz Hands CIC, stated, “These new appointments bring a fresh dimension to Jazz Hands CIC and outline a new direction as the organisation scales up its ambitions for the future. Jazz Hands CIC has achieved so much in its first eight years, and now is the right time to expand the board, incorporating new expertise and perspectives.” He also noted, “We are pleased to see Deirdre Makepeace transition from an operational role to a strategic position as Director of Finance. Her commitment to the organisation, especially in her retirement years, highlights her dedication to a business she was instrumental in creating and nurturing to its current success.”
