Flora Newbigin

Background

About Flora Newbigin

I’m an experienced senior leader with a background in participatory arts, currently working as interim Head of Knowledge at the Design Council. With over 15 years of leadership across creative and public sector environments, I bring a people-centred, strategic, and collaborative approach to complex challenges. I thrive in roles that combine creativity, operational delivery, and meaningful impact — particularly where engaging diverse voices and building strong relationships is key.My strengths lie in shaping strategy, leading teams through change, and designing programmes that connect people and ideas. I'm especially passionate about inclusive, purpose-driven work that values empathy, creativity, and systems thinking. I'm happiest when I am contributing to organisational growth, team culture, and social value — whether through strategic leadership, facilitation, or programme development.My previous roles include Director of Programmes at arts for social change theatre company Cardboard Citizens, where I led cross sector collaborations using theatre to tackle issues relating to homelessness, on a personal and systemic level. I have a wealth of experience in designing and delivering projects which engage a range of stakeholders including government officials, front line workers, artists, and people with lived experience of complex issues. Prior to working in theatre, I was a leader in Inclusive Education, working in both mainstream and therapeutic schools. Here I convened cross disciple support networks for children with complex needs and supported schools and services to provide top quality inclusive education.I am also a mother of two glorious girls who fill my heart and my life. And am a trustee of Caris Families, which works with families in temporary accommodation.