Australian Chamber Orchestra Names New Managing Director

The Chairman of the ACO, Guido Belgiorno-Nettis AM, is delighted to advise that following a national and international executive search, Mr Richard Evans has been chosen to be the next Managing Director of the ACO.

Richard Evans is well-known to the arts sector from his previous leadership roles as General Manager of The Bell Shakespeare Company, Executive Director of the Australian Ballet, and Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Opera House.

Mr Belgiorno-Nettis said that the ACO Board greatly welcomes Richard Evans' appointment as he has the experience to build on the ACO's great Australian and international reputations.

Richard Tognetti's creative vision and leadership will be matched by Richard Evans' wide experience in managing many successful arts companies and enterprises.

The ACO Board is looking forward to the new era of creativity that will occur when two such successful individuals are brought together.

Artistic Director Richard Tognetti AO said, "I'm delighted to work with Richard Evans, a man whose reputation is vast. He has left a positive impression at all the companies he has led. I look forward to working with Richard to guide the ACO to another level. The timing couldn't be better for the ACO, as we embark on a number of new and exciting projects."

Richard Evans said, "I have long been an admirer of the Australian Chamber Orchestra. It is an honour to have the opportunity to work with Richard Tognetti, the musicians, staff and Board of this remarkable organisation. The impact the ACO has had on the musical and broader cultural life of Australia has been immense, and I look forward to being part of the journey in the next phase of their national and international development."

Background

An experienced CEO, non-executive director, cultural precinct leader, producer, and public servant, Richard Evans has held roles as Executive Director of The Bell Shakespeare Company, Managing Director of Sydney's BridgeClimb, Executive Director of The Australian Ballet and CEO of Sydney Opera House.

In his role at the Opera House Richard oversaw 2,500 events annually, attracted over $200 million in major capital works funding, established a number of new festivals and activations, significantly developing the public domain and presided over a period of unprecedented economic, brand, tourism and audience growth.

Following a 20-year career Richard Evans established RE? Consulting Pty Ltd in early 2013. RE? Consulting Pty Ltd is a boutique consulting firm offering business, philanthropic, contemporary communications and marketing insights and strategies. Key skills include team building and experience planning in the arts, culture, events and broader community and cultural infrastructure and development environments.

Currently Mr Evans is the Interim Managing Director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the Arts and Culture Advisor to the Barangaroo Delivery Authority in Sydney.

Mr Evans will commence with the ACO in early April 2016.