Lyric Theatre Welcomes New Board Member, John McGrillen
The Lyric Theatre is delighted to announce the appointment of John McGrillen to its Board.
John brings over 30 years of senior leadership experience across central and local government, with an exceptional track record in strategic development, public service, and championing Northern Ireland on the international stage.
Throughout his distinguished career, John has played a pivotal role in supporting Northern Ireland’s economic growth—leading initiatives in Foreign Direct Investment, trade promotion, urban regeneration, and tourism development. During his time as Director of Development at Belfast City Council, he was also responsible for expanding and promoting arts and culture across the city, strengthening Belfast’s reputation as a vibrant cultural destination.
John has held several significant Non-Executive Director roles. He previously served six years on the Board of Tourism NI before becoming its CEO in 2015, and he is currently a Non-Executive Director of Tourism Ireland, the cross-border body responsible for promoting the island of Ireland internationally. From 2015 to 2022, he also served two terms as a Governor of Belfast Metropolitan College.
Speaking on his appointment, John McGrillen said:
“I am excited about joining the board of the Lyric Theatre and to have the opportunity to continue to work with Jimmy Fay and his fantastic team.
The Lyric is one of our most important cultural institutions with an ambition to grow participation and to showcase Northern Ireland’s creativity to a global audience. I look forward to using my experience of working with local communities, supporting the arts and promoting Northern Ireland internationally in helping the Lyric to fulfilling those ambitions.”
Bruce Robinson, Chair of the Lyric Theatre Board, welcomed the appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome John McGrillen to the Board. He brings a wealth of experience from a very successful career in public service, in particular, bringing the best of Northern Ireland out into the world. We look forward to John contributing to the next stage of the strategic development of the Lyric.”
John’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter as the Lyric continues to grow its reach, artistic ambition, and role as a cultural leader in Northern Ireland.