Investment leader joins prestigious Welsh college
AN EXPERIENCED leader in investment and banking has been appointed to chair of the Board of Directors of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, it was announced yesterday.
John Derrick’s career includes senior roles at Barclays, Lombard Odier and Goldman Sachs.
He currently contributes to the conservatoire’s development and fundraising as the RWCMD London advisory group’s chair. In his new role he will serve as a director of the College and, as chair, will be a member of the Board of Governors of RWCMD’s parent, the University of South Wales.
Gareth Williams, chair of the Board of Governors of the University of South Wales, said: “This is a strong appointment for the RWCMD in particular and for the USW Group as a whole. “John’s professional reputation in the financial world and strong Welsh roots are matched by his wellknown love for the arts. We are delighted to appoint him to chair the Board of our national conservatoire, and under his stewardship we look forward to the college continuing to develop and prosper as an asset for Wales and an internationally recognised educator in music and drama.”
Educated at Ysgol y Strade, Llanelli and Wadham College, University of Oxford, John Derrick is the also chair of Pimlico Opera and a trustee of the Orion Orchestra.
He said: “I am delighted to join the Board of the College at this exciting time in its development. The college is a world class institution based in Wales with strong links between the arts and the creative industries – ensuring that talented students are able to study in Cardiff and develop their careers in the global arts industry. I look forward to working with the Principal, academics and students to support their aspirations and ambitions in the future.”