Welsh literature body unveils two new joint-chief executives

LITERATURE Wales has announced the appointment of Leusa Llewelyn and Claire Furlong as joint-chief executives for the organisation.

Following an open recruitment process, Claire Furlong has been appointed executive director, and Leusa Llewelyn artistic director.

They will each focus on different aspects of Literature Wales’ strategic work, while working together to achieve the organisation’s overall vision of a Wales where literature empowers, improves and brightens lives.

Literature Wales is the national company for the development of literature. Funded by the Arts Council of Wales, it was established in 2011, under the leadership of chief executive Lleucu Siencyn.

Cathryn Charnell-white, chair of the Literature Wales board of directors, said: “Appointing Claire and Leusa to lead Literature Wales is a bold artistic, administrational, and democratic development for the company. They are deeply committed to the principles that are embedded in our current strategic plan, and have fresh ideas that will ensure that the power of literature will continue to inspire authors and communities across Wales.”

Phil George, chair, Arts Council of Wales, said: “They bring with them a wealth of experience from within and beyond the literature sector. Most importantly, they have a passion for the rich, challenging and diverse work of Wales’ writers and a strong desire to develop new voices.

“They both share the Arts Council of Wales’ belief that the arts should be central to the life and well-being of the nation, alive and experienced in communities everywhere. I know they will work energetically and skilfully to build on the excellent legacy of the outgoing CEO, Lleucu Siencyn.”