After 16 years in the role, Sarah Gardner has announced that she will be stepping down as the founding Executive Director of IFACCA. 

When the board of IFACCA met in Buenos Aires earlier this month they discussed the process of appointing a new Executive Director.  IFACCA is advertising the position globally as described here.

In advising Federation members about the change in leadership, the Chair of IFACCA and CEO of Creative New Zealand, Stephen Wainwright, said: ‘We are grateful that Sarah has offered to continue as Executive Director until such time as the new person is appointed and will be available to provide a smooth and thorough handover during the coming months.

‘The organisation is in a strong position and the board wishes to ensure that the current Strategic Plan 2015-2020 continues to be implemented in the two-year period between now and the next World Summit, which will be held in Kuala Lumpur on 11-14 March 2019. 

Sarah Gardner, who will leave IFACCA later in the year to pursue some new personal and professional interests, said: ‘In creating a global network of arts funding agencies and initiating an extensive range of events and activities over the last 16 years, we have helped members to be better connected, resourced and informed and to have a greater global voice and impact. I'm sure that IFACCA will continue to build its international reputation and contribute positively to the culture sector in the future.’

In the meantime, IFACCA’s programs will continue as usual and the secretariat is available to assist with any inquiries.