National Dance Company Wales appoints Amanda Roberts as Executive Director (& Joint CEO)

Amanda brings over 25 years’ experience in arts leadership, producing, and organisational development across dance, theatre, festivals, and cultural organisations throughout the UK.

Originally from Wales, Amanda spent much of her childhood and early adulthood in the Garw Valley, Aberystwyth, and Cardiff. She currently lives in Birmingham and will be relocating to take up the role. Her education includes studies at Ynysawdre Comprehensive, Aberystwyth University, and Cardiff Adult Education.

Amanda has held a wide range of senior leadership and producing roles across the arts and cultural sector, including positions with Selina Thompson Ltd, Coventry City of Culture Trust, Punch, mac Birmingham, Arts Council England, and Contact Theatre. Her experience spans leadership, cultural strategy, and artist development, underpinned by a strong commitment to diversity, community engagement, and environmental responsibility. She has also served in advisory and trustee capacities, giving her a broad understanding of governance and sector leadership.

Her work has consistently championed creativity, inclusion, and community impact, leading major programmes that connect the arts with wellbeing, sustainability, and social change. Amanda’s extensive experience in both producing and organisational leadership will play a vital role in shaping NDCWales’ next chapter.

Amanda joins Artistic Director (& Joint CEO) Bakani Pick-Up, who took up post earlier this year. Together, they will co-lead the company into an exciting new era for dance in Wales – one defined by bold creativity, inclusion, and national and international ambition.

Speaking about her appointment, Amanda said:

“I’m thrilled to be joining National Dance Company Wales at such a pivotal moment in its journey. The company has a powerful legacy of bold, human storytelling through movement, and I’m excited to work alongside Bakani and the brilliant team to build on that foundation – expanding our reach, deepening our community connections, and creating opportunities that celebrate Welsh creativity on a global stage.”

Bakani Pick-Up, Artistic Director (& Joint CEO), added:

“Amanda’s appointment marks an incredibly exciting moment for the company. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of how creativity can drive meaningful change. Together, we’ll continue to push boundaries – not only in the work we make, but in how we connect with communities and represent Wales to the world. I can’t wait to begin this next chapter with her.”

Chair of the Board Alison said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Amanda to NDCWales. Her deep experience across the arts and her strong connection to Wales make her the ideal partner to work alongside Bakani as the company embarks on its next chapter. Together, they will lead NDCWales with creativity, vision, and integrity as we continue to grow our impact and influence both at home and internationally.”

She continues: “On behalf of the Board and the wider company, I also want to express sincere thanks and gratitude to David Watson, who joined NDCWales as Interim Executive Director (& Joint CEO). David’s leadership, commitment, and enthusiasm have helped strengthen the company’s foundations and set it on a clear path towards a bold and exciting new future.”

Amanda will officially commence her role with NDCWales in January 2026.