Barbican Centre appoints new CEO as £191m renewal programme advances

The City of London Corporation has appointed Abigail Pogson as the new chief executive of the Barbican Centre, following what it called a “competitive international recruitment process”. 

Pogson, currently chief executive of The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, will take up the role on 5 January 2026. 

Pogson called The Barbican “one of the world’s most iconic cultural destinations”, adding: “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.”

Sir William Russell, Chair of the City Corporation’s Barbican Centre Board said Pogson “brings both strategic vision and a real passion for supporting artistic talent and the audiences who engage with it. I know she will lead this organisation with skill and imagination as we continue to evolve and connect. 

 David Farnsworth, Managing Director of the City Bridge Foundation, has served as Interim CEO of the Barbican for the past year on secondment. 

The permanent appointment comes as the Barbican begins its Renewal programme to restore and revitalise the Grade II listed buildings. The City Corporation has committed £191m to the project, undertaking extensive fundraising to complete Phase 1 and beyond.

The Barbican Renewal Programme forms part of several transformative projects being delivered by the City Corporation, including the Salisbury Square Development and the new London Museum at Smithfield. The Corporation is one of the largest funders of heritage and cultural activities in the UK, investing over £130 million annually across institutions including Tower Bridge, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Guildhall Art Gallery, The London Archives, and Keats House.