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Gemma Barnett & Rubicon Dance

Board Bank

The Arts Organisation: Rubicon Dance

Formed in 1975, Rubicon is a charity based in Adamsdown, Cardiff which enables people of all ages and abilities to dance. It welcomes over 1,000 people each week to dance sessions, including children, adults, school groups, hospital patients, stroke survivors, those living with disabilities and older people.

The Challenge:

Rubicon sought to strengthen the Board’s expertise in Change Management and Business Development.

The Adviser: Gemma Barnett

Having trained as a dancer, Gemma wished to apply her business experience and skills to the arts, get an insight into how a different sector works and gain governance experience.

The Results

For: Rubicon

Since joining the Board in 2018 and becoming its Vice Chair in 2021, Gemma has had an incredible impact on Rubicon. She played a crucial role in stabilising the company when it experienced a financial crisis in 2022 and was instrumental in maintaining a functioning team and operation, while leading an organisational re-structure.  Gemma took on the responsibilities of a Director, motivating the Board and building the confidence of the newly formed leadership team. Under her leadership, the staff team, and Trustees became a cohesive and unified force, committed to safeguarding the company’s future. During this time, Gemma:

  • Implemented an effective communications structure
  • Led on HR and Operations
  • Spearheaded the re-structure of the organisation to ensure it was fit for purpose
  • Provided management training and mentoring support to the Leadership Team
  • Led on the recruitment of key roles, including the new CEO and Trustees
  • Successfully fundraised for the charity, securing vital funding to ensure continuity and survival.

Rubicon is now in a stable situation with a bright future. Gemma continues to be a stalwart of the charity, becoming its Chair in January 2024 and winning the A&B Cymru Adviser of the Year Award.

For: Gemma

For Gemma, working with Rubicon has developed her skills, network and experience considerably and she feels truly privileged to be part of an organisation that she believes in so passionately. It has brought an invaluable perspective from outside the corporate world, which has furthered her career and expanded her knowledge. As a Trustee, Gemma has:

  • Been empowered by implementing strategic decision-making skills on matters relating to Rubicon’s direction and operation.
  • Created and implemented policies and procedures
  • Expanded her professional network
  • Pitched and led key meetings with funders
  • Significantly expanded her leadership and management experience and knowledge

The Endorsement

Gemma gave Rubicon endless hours, energy and enthusiasm when we were at our lowest point and unsure if we could carry on. She has motivated and guided the newly formed leadership team and given us confidence in our own management skills. Without her direction, drive, encouragement, determination, support and understanding we may no longer be here today.

Tracey Brown, Mentoring, Training & Development Leader, Rubicon Dance

My experience as a Trustee has been invaluable to both my personal and professional development.  It has tangibly developed my management, problem solving and strategic decision-making skills.

I would describe my role at Rubicon as a passion project. I believe in the organisation, the people that work within it and what it aims to achieve. I feel privileged to be involved and want to see it succeed for many years to come.

Gemma Barnett, Business Development Manager, Blake Morgan