The Mighty Creatives announces CEO transition

Sooree Pillay to succeed Dr. Nick Owen following over a decade of leadership

LEICESTER, 12 OCTOBER 2026 – The Mighty Creatives has announced that Sooree Pillay will become its next Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Dr Nick Owen, who is stepping down after more than a decade in the role to focus on key personal and professional projects.

Sooree is currently Regional Producer – Midlands and Strategic Lead for EDI at Orchestras Live. She brings wide-ranging experience over two decades, working across multiple art forms, advocacy, diversity, inclusion, belonging and youth services, and has previously held roles at Sampad South Asian Arts & Heritage, Inspirate and New Art Exchange, alongside her freelance work in the sector.

Sooree is expected to start on 9th December 2026. A carefully managed handover is already under way, led by Chair of Trustees, Dr. Christine White, with Nick and Sooree working together to thoughtfully and carefully transfer key projects and leadership responsibilities. 

Says upcoming CEO, Sooree Pilay, “I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the brilliant team at TMC in December. I thank Nick for his vision, leadership and commitment which I have been inspired by over the last ten years. I look forward to working with this gifted team and our trustees to ensure that diverse young voices continue be valued and at the heart of our mission, and that access to opportunity continues to be advocated for as the right of all children and young people.”

The appointment marks a new chapter for The Mighty Creatives while maintaining continuity in its mission, vision and values. Sooree’s background in the arts and education, and her extensive experience of championing creativity and young people’s agency, including belonging, inclusion self-confidence and self-expression, will help the organisation build on the progress and impact achieved under Nick’s leadership.

Says current CEO, Dr. Nick Owen, “I leave TMC feeling very positive about its future. The organisation is entering its next chapter with strong programmes, talented and committed staff, an increasingly diverse range of partnerships and opportunities, and a fabulous new CEO, Sooree Pillay, who will bring her own leadership, energy and perspective to the role.”

During the transition, TMC’s team remains committed to delivering all current programmes, contracts, obligations and partner projects with the same rigour, care and passion. Any future changes to programmes, services or existing commitments will be communicated clearly and well in advance.