The City of London Corporation has appointed Abigail Pogson as Barbican Centre’s new CEO. Pogson, who is the current chief executive of The Glasshouse International Centre for music, will start her new role at the London venue on 5 January 2026.
Pogson comes with “a wealth of experience” in the arts and community sector. She is currently a board member for Arts Council England and has previously been chief executive for Spitalfields Music.
The new appointment comes as the Barbican starts a renewal programme to upgrade and restore the Grade II listed venue. City of London Corporation Policy chairman Chris Hayward said the Barbican will receive £191m of investment from the City of London Corporation.
Pogson said of her new role: “The Barbican is one of the world’s most iconic cultural destinations, and I’m beyond delighted to be joining at such a critical and exciting time in its history. “I believe deeply in the power of art and creativity to enrich lives and communities, and I look forward to working with the talented team at the Barbican and its many fabulous partners to bring exceptional, relevant, and joyful cultural experiences to as many people as possible.”
Hayward said, “We are thrilled to welcome Abigail to the Barbican. Her track record of dynamic, inclusive leadership makes her the ideal person to lead the Centre through this new chapter and beyond.”
