The Core at Corby Cube appoints new Chair of Trustees

With twenty years of experience leading internal communications and employee engagement in large multi-national businesses, David’s creative and inclusive approach has helped shape and transform employee experience in organisations including the BBC, Currys, Associated British Foods and Travis Perkins.

Passionate about community engagement, he has led the award-winning charity partnerships for businesses, and employee engagement activities for BBC Children in Need. More locally, he’s led numerous community activities including the Big Christmas Toy Collection with Northampton Saints RFC, and ‘must-see’ live events and a nature park in Thrapston – all of which have earned him huge praise.

As Chair, David will work closely with The Core at Corby Cube’s Board of Trustees and the senior management team as they shape the organisation’s direction and vision.

David said: "Having benefitted greatly from a 30 year involvement in local theatre, I'm delighted to be appointed Chair. I'm excited to lead our fantastic team of Trustees to further develop The Core as a centre of excellence for performing arts in North Northants. I've been humbled by the brilliance of the whole team, led by Director, Joe Flavin in this stunning venue. We'll work tirelessly with our community representatives to present outstanding live music, comedy and theatre productions that audiences love, and continue to evolve our arts and engagement opportunities for young people and our wider communities in Corby and the local area."

David Manning takes over from Gary Tait, who stepped down from the role in 2023 following ten years as a board member, and six years as Chair. Gary says: “It’s been a pleasure and an honour to serve The Core as a Trustee and in my capacity as Chairman. As part of my close links with the local community I have seen this amazing organisation play an important role in inspiring, engaging and entertaining people from the local towns and communities.”

2023/24 saw a record-breaking number of audience members attend The Core at Corby Cube to enjoy a live performance, with visits from Sarah Millican, Northern Ballet and Francis Rossi. Even more engaged with the venue via youth or community based creative projects, like Splore at The Core, Royal Shakespeare Company First Encounters, and Royal Opera House Create and Sing. The venue looks forward to expanding their programme of events into the future, making participation in the arts engaging, entertaining, relevant and accessible for all. It also importantly made an economic impact of £4.71min the local area, a vital contributor to the night time economy and important landmark for the continuing regeneration of Corby Town Centre.