Rhiannon McKay-Smith appointed RNCM Director of Development

The RNCM is pleased to announce the appointment of Rhiannon McKay-Smith as its new Director of Development, commencing in September.

Rhiannon has over 17 years’ experience in building funding partnerships, advocacy and raising multi-million-pound sums for nationally significant arts and cultural organisations. Most recently, she has been co-Director of Development at The Lowry in Salford after a career in London working as Head of Development at the Young Vic theatre. She started her fundraising career at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew and is passionate about the role that arts and culture can play in society, specifically building partnerships that enable organisations to turn bold ambitions into reality.

She said: ‘I’m thrilled to be joining such a forward-thinking and ambitious organisation and look forward to working with the team at the RNCM from the Autumn.’

Rhiannon will replace Suzie Thompson, who leaves the College later this month after seven successful years in post.

Suzie, who was recently appointed Director of Development and Alumni Relations at the University of Liverpool, said: ‘Working at the RNCM has been a privilege and a joy. I’d like to wish Rhiannon all the very best in this role which has, without doubt, been the best of my career.’

14 May 2021