Vicki Amedume steps down as Creative Director and Co-CEO

Vicki will be stepping back at the end of July, following a long history with the Albany.  

Vicki said: “After much reflection, I have decided to step down from my role as Co-CEO and Creative Director at the Albany. 

The Albany has been a constant thread throughout my creative life. Over many years, I have crossed paths with the organisation in different ways, always admiring its commitment to creativity, community and social change. In 2022, I returned to support the delivery of We Are Lewisham, London Borough of Culture, and what followed became one of the most rewarding chapters of my career.  

It has been a privilege to help lead an organisation that means so much to so many people and I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to strengthen the Albany's role as a cultural anchor for Lewisham; support artists, young people and communities to thrive; and embed community leadership more deeply into the organisation through initiatives such as the Community Council. 

I am also proud to have played a role in shaping the vision for the Albany's future transformation. Through that work, I have been reminded time and again how deeply this organisation matters to people. The transformation has never simply been about a building; it has been about ensuring the Albany can continue to be a welcoming, ambitious and inspiring home for creativity and community for generations to come.  

As I look ahead, this feels like the right moment to return more fully to my own artistic practice and to the next chapter of Upswing's journey. Creating work that expands who gets to be seen, heard and celebrated remains at the heart of what drives me. 

I leave with deep gratitude to the staff, artists, trustees, partners and community members who have shaped this journey. Most of all, I leave with immense pride in what we have built together and complete confidence in the team who will take the Albany forward into this exciting next phase.  The organisation is in excellent hands. 

The Albany will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will remain one of its biggest champions.” 

The Albany will continue to be led by Mimi Findlay, Executive Director and Co-CEO, supported by Development Director and Deputy CEO Hayley Murphy.  

Mimi said: “Progressing the vision of the Albany by Vicki's side over this last year has been a true honour and a highlight for me as I returned to the organisation, and I can’t wait to see how her artistic practice and leadership continues to make waves nationally and internationally. 

The Albany is entering a significant period of change, and as we look ahead to a transformative capital development project, we will redefine how this deeply cherished arts centre will hold its communities - in a time where the arts and creative health provision is increasingly under threat of being diminished.  

 Our team are excited about the Albany’s future. The building’s legacy will galvanise us towards a vibrant future - and we will stride forward with confidence that this building will continue to be South East London’s leading arts centre for many generations to come.” 

Chair of the Board of Trustees, Michelle Matherson, said: “Vicki has led the Albany with remarkable vision, integrity and determination, and I want to thank her for the extraordinary commitment and leadership she has given to the organisation. Her love for the Albany has helped shape an organisation that is stronger, more ambitious and better placed for the future. Her contribution will leave a lasting legacy.

I am immensely proud of the leadership Mimi and Hayley have already shown alongside Vicki. Together, they have helped shape an organisation that is ambitious, resilient and deeply connected to its communities. Their creativity and unwavering commitment to the Albany’s values make them an exceptional leadership team, and I look forward to working alongside them as we embark on the Albany’s next exciting chapter.”

Photo credit: Hugh Hill.