Polly Gifford

Polly Gifford is an experienced cultural leader currently serving as the Grow Wild & Youth Programme Manager at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, since October 2023. In this role, Polly manages a national outreach programme that promotes community engagement through the cultivation of UK native plants and fungi. As the Festival Director for Sanctuary Festival since March 2017, Polly oversees an arts festival that raises awareness and funds for local refugees and asylum seekers. Previous positions include Interim Executive Director at Theatre Complicité, Cultural Regeneration Manager at Hastings Borough Council, and Project Lead for the Coastal Culture Network. Polly served as Director of Bridport Arts Centre and held educational roles at De La Warr Pavilion and Charlton Athletic Race Equality Partnership. Polly holds a degree in Politics & Economics from the University of Leeds and an MA in Theatre for Development from King Alfred's College.