Page 530 - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Coverage Book 2023-24

Previously, Eakin was part of the Arts Council England, where he
was the Executive Director North West since 2001. He was also
the Director of Arts and Leisure for the Reading Borough
Council, director of The Hexagon, and led the WOMAD

Festival in Reading.

Additionally, he was a former chair of the Association of British
Orchestras (ABO) and Vice President of the Theatrical
Management Association, and was a member of the National

Council of Arts Council England until 2022. He is currently chair
of the Liverpool City Region Music Board.

Eakin’s accolades include the Liverpool City Region Cultural
Leader of the Year, ABO’s 2015 Concert Hall Manager of the Year,

as well as an honorary degree from the University of
Liverpool in 2022, in recognition of his contribution to arts and
culture in Liverpool.

“I am proud and grateful to be awarded this honor. Throughout
my career it has been a joy to work in the arts, and nowhere more

so than at Royal Liverpool Philharmonic,” Eakin said in the press
release. “This organization is central to the cultural identity and
life of Liverpool, and, indeed, the UK … I am privileged to work

with an incredible team of colleagues and this award is as much a
recognition for their work and dedication as it is for me.”

“On behalf of the board, staff members, musicians and friends of
Liverpool Philharmonic, I want to extend our heartfelt
congratulations to Michael,” added the orchestra’s board

chair Louise Shepherd. “His unwavering dedication and
exceptional leadership has been pivotal to the continued success

and growth of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society and
Orchestra.

“Through his outstanding work to foster community engagement

and expand music educational programs and opportunities for
children and young people across the City Region, coupled with