Royal Liverpool Philharmonic’s CEO Awarded Officer of the British Empire 

Michael Eakin was awarded in The King’s New Year’s Honors list for services to music and to the community in Liverpool

The King’s New Year Honors List recognizes outstanding achievements of individuals, including community champions, sport role models, pioneers in the arts, health workers, and supporters of young people.

Michael Eakin has served as CEO of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic since 2008. In this position, he has overseen the £14 million refurbishment of the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, plus the development of both the orchestra and its community engagement programs. 

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 further elevating the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic’s recognition as one of the world’s leading Orchestras, Michael has played a crucial role in shaping the Society as one of the UK’s leading cultural institutions.”