Helen Slater appointed Principal and CEO of RADA

The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art has confirmed the appointment of Helen Slater as its ninth Principal & CEO, following an extensive search process. She takes up her new role with immediate effect.

Helen Slater said:

“After 10 years at RADA, the quality of work in our studios still astonishes me, as our students prepare for a rapidly changing world of performance. The modern actor, technical artist, and theatre-maker of the 2030s needs greater creative autonomy, fluency across screen and emerging forms, and confidence to work across disciplines and cultures. Our job is to train for that new world without conceding any of what makes RADA exceptional."

Marcus Ryder MBE, Chair of RADA Council, welcomed the appointment:

“Helen is a true believer in RADA’s spirit and ethos, with acute understanding of the opportunities and challenges we face. We have been impressed with her performance as Interim Principal over the last two years, working closely with academic faculty, students and leading practitioners. We are delighted she has accepted our invitation to become permanent Principal & CEO.”

Having joined RADA in 2016, Helen was appointed Interim Principal & CEO in December 2024, and has led a programme of academic renewal, including the development of new postgraduate courses, and the launch of RADA Residencies, with Cynthia Erivo among its first Resident Artists. RADA’s commercial education has continued to grow under her leadership, with its teams delivering RADA’s distinctive training to thousands of lifelong learners.

Helen’s experience spans higher education and major cultural organisations, including Intermusica Artists Management, Southbank Centre, Royal Court Theatre, The National Youth Orchestra, M&C Saatchi Arts and frieze.