Fernanda Leony — Candidate for Director
Artist, curator and executive leader with a track record of building inclusive cultural programmes, securing sustainable funding, and creating audience-centred experiences — ready to lead the Royal Hibernian Academy into its next chapter.
Available to meet in Dublin. Work-authorised in Ireland.
CEO experience in high-growth ventures, independent curator for international exhibitions, award-winning fundraiser.
Artist-first leadership
Programmes, studios, and open calls
Vision (3–5 years)
I will deepen audience pathways and membership value, extend programming beyond the white cube through regional partnerships, and build a resilient income mix while protecting free public access and the artist-run ethos. My programme balances solo and thematic exhibitions, open calls and studio visits to support artists at every stage.
Leadership & Operations
I combine formal arts training with executive leadership in high-growth ventures and cultural programming to align budgets, teams and delivery.
Mexico–LATAM, 2024–present
Directed communications & marketing strategy, tripled audience engagement and revenue in two years. Led capital raising, investor relations and strategic partnerships with clear procurement and reporting.
Mexico / USA, 2019–2023
Led CX, communications, marketing and sales for product launches and market growth; managed partnerships and stakeholder relationships with 90% client success.
2020–present
Curated exhibitions (Ephemeral Human, Absent Memory) and public programmes — fundraising, installation, publications and community engagement.
Programmes & Development
I structure clear programme budgets, transparent reporting and stewardship plans that turn supporters into long-term ambassadors. My fundraising experience spans grants, sponsorships, angel investors and competition awards.
Rigorous open call processes and an active studio visiting programme ensure fairness and support at every career stage.
Workshops, talks, co-created activities and regional partnerships to diversify audiences and increase participation.
Annual development plan spanning grants, sponsorships, philanthropy and patron stewardship with clear goals and cadence.
Tech & Innovation awards
Techstars, Chany Ventures, Shark Tank
Recognition
Latinas in Tech — winner; Premio Estatal a la Juventud Jalisco — winner
Selected achievements
Recognition across cultural and innovation sectors—combining creative practice with measurable delivery and partnership development.
I blend artistic practice and leadership—curating exhibitions (Ephemeral Human, Absent Memory), programming festivals and leading fundraising and partnerships to scale audience impact.
Get in touch
I’m available to discuss the Director role, share detailed budgets and programming plans, and meet with Officers and Council.