Meet the team

Jacqui originally trained and worked in theatre and community writing before joining Arc (then MAPS) in the 90s, progressing through the roles of artist-facilitator, Assistant Coordinator and Artistic Director. Since 2019 she has been proud to lead Arc as Chief Executive, representing the organisation in local and regional networks and leading our strategic development.

Harriet has a background in theatre, hospitality and events management. With an entrepreneurial mindset, she is responsible for the development of the cafe and retail trading of Arc. Having lived experience of mental ill health and a keen painter in her spare time, she is passionate about using creativity to benefit the mental wellbeing of all communities.

With a background in art and design, Annette joined the charity as a community artist. She spent many years facilitating a diverse range of creative community engagement projects building experience and expertise in arts and mental health. Her journey through Arc has seen her progress from lead artist through to senior project manager and now Arc’s Creative Wellbeing Lead, shaping and leading Arc’s core arts and mental health work.

Ellen started at Arc as a volunteer and seeing the transformative impact of Arc’s work first-hand inspired a new career facilitating and coordinating arts and health projects. Ellen’s lived experience drives her passion for mental health and neurodivergent advocacy and creating accessible inclusive spaces. She supports participants throughout their journey at Arc with a person-centred trauma-informed approach.

Jo joined Arc as a Marketing Volunteer in 2019, having paused her career to look after her young family. She has a degree in Marketing, an extensive background in Project Management in the finance industry and loves having a more meaningful role with Arc. She also works a half time project role at Manchester Met Uni.

Lucie has lived experience with mental ill-health which led her to advocacy in arts and health and volunteering with Arc. She studied for a Masters in Digital Marketing and is passionate about charity and art marketing and supporting artists with their own marketing and brand storytelling.

Lydia has a background in founding and advocating for grassroots and DIY social-justice projects and is an avid artist and musician. She writes and plays music in a couple of local bands and also works in wholefood shop and workers’ cooperative Eighth Day in Manchester. With extensive lived experience of mental ill-health, Lydia is passionate about bolstering volunteers’ experience and encouraging inclusivity, diversity and skill-sharing.

Nuala is a chartered accountant (FCCA) with extensive experience of managing finance systems. She manages the day-to-day financial matters and has a broad spectrum of financial and business skills that complement the work of the charity. She finds working at Arc hugely rewarding, seeing the progress participants make whilst on the programmes and the amazing work produced by all the creatives that are associated with us.

Richard is a touring musician, producer, and experienced music facilitator. With nearly a decade of youth-focused project work across Manchester, he specialises in empowering underrepresented young people through music. He joined Arc in January 2025, continuing his commitment to creative youth engagement through music and collaborative projects that build confidence, connection, and artistic growth.

Megan has years of experience in cafés, kitchens, and art galleries, managing teams and creating welcoming spaces. Passionate about community, creativity, and care, she loves supporting others and seeing confidence grow.