Welcome to our new Elected Trustees!

In October, we opened a call out for members to apply to join our Board of Trustees in two elected positions. With five candidates nominated to stand for election, members were able to vote for two candidates, and the two candidates with the highest numbers of votes cast have now been appointed as elected Trustees at our AGM on 7th November 2024. Thank you to all of the candidates who put themselves forward for the election, and congratulations to our new trustees, Jennie Henley and Charlotte Payne! 

Jennie Henley 

Why did you decide to join the Board of Trustees? 

With a professional background in instrumental teaching and teacher education, I am a senior leader at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). My role involves strategic leadership of the degree programmes, leading RNCM Engage and our under-18 provision, and I am responsible for Access and Participation. I have an interest in music education policy, how policy is enacted in schools, colleges, universities, and the centrality of Music Hubs in ensuring inclusive music opportunities for all children. Being a Trustee for Music Mark will enable me to bring a view from teacher education in conservatoires and contribute at a national level. 

What experience and skills will you bring to the Board of Trustees? 

Having taught since 1996, I have long-standing experience in teaching, educational leadership and knowledge of the sector. I worked for Gloucestershire Music until 2012 before moving into Higher Education. With expertise in inclusive pedagogy, I continue to teach pedagogy at the RNCM keeping me in touch with teaching and teachers. I am a member of the newly formed Greater Manchester and Blackburn with Darwen Music Hub strategic board and work in partnership with other music hubs in the North-West and beyond. I have experience in governance, including chairing of boards, and institutional level financial management as a non-finance executive director. 

Charlotte Payne 

Charlotte has worked in various roles, from teaching in schools to leading secondary music departments in the Midlands and London. Currently, Charlotte is the Music Director at Inspiring Music within Central Bedfordshire Council, which is the Hub Lead Organisation for the BLMK (Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes) Music Hub.

Why did you decide to join the Board of Trustees? 

I am motivated to join the Board of Trustees because of my deep commitment to the transformative power of music education and my desire to support Music Mark’s national mission. My career has shown me music’s profound impact on individuals and communities. As Head of the Music Service at Inspiring Music and Hub Lead for the BLMK Music Hub, I’ve built partnerships to expand musical opportunities and enhance community engagement. Joining the Board will enable me to collaborate in driving positive change across the sector and advocate for high-quality, inclusive music education for all young people. 

What experience and skills will you bring to the Board of Trustees? 

With over 25 years in music education, from peripatetic teaching and leading secondary school music departments to my current role as Head of Service, I bring a broad perspective and understanding of creating dynamic, inclusive environments and championing professional development. My work focuses on using music for positive social change, enhancing well-being, and promoting inclusivity. I recognise and value the building of partnerships within communities, across council directorates, and national organisations, ensuring effective collaboration and high-impact results. I am keen to contribute my leadership and strategic skills to the Board of Trustees to support Music Mark’s growth, influence and development. 

We look forward to working with the refreshed Board of Trustees going forward.