New Writing North names new chair

Newcastle-based literature development charity New Writing North has appointed Sinead Rocks as chair as it marks its 30th anniversary and progresses plans for a new city centre venue.

Sinead succeeds Helen Dalby, editorial director for Reach in the North East, Humber and Yorkshire, who served as interim chair for nine months following the death of Neil Warwick OBE in December 2025.

She was previously managing director, nations and regions at Channel 4 and will become chief executive of screen training organisation ScreenSkills in November.

During her time at Channel 4, Sinead oversaw its strategy to increase investment in creative content across the nations and regions, founded skills initiative 4Skills and led the opening of regional centres in Leeds, Bristol and Glasgow.

She will lead New Writing North’s 14-strong board of trustees as the charity progresses plans for a new public venue dedicated to writing, reading and publishing in Newcastle.

The project, which has secured £10.5 million in funding, is scheduled for completion in 2028.

Sinead said: “I’m honoured to become chair at such an important moment in New Writing North’s history.

“The new centre is an ambitious and timely investment in Newcastle, the North and the UK’s creative future.

“I’m looking forward to working with Claire, the board, the team and our partners to build on this unique organisation’s exceptional legacy.”

Claire Malcolm, chief executive of New Writing North, added: “Sinead will bring her experience of leading organisations through considerable change to New Writing North as we embark on the next exciting chapter of our story. 

“Sinead’s appointment signals that we are here for writing in all forms.

“With writers underpinning so many areas of the creative industries we look forward to opening a centre that will serve a wide range of interests including TV and film, alongside publishing, gaming and written and performed writing of all kinds.”

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