Changing Faces

Former Barbican boss appointed ENO interim chair

Arts Professional
2 min read

LOUISE JEFFREYS has been named interim chair of English National Opera (ENO) following the retirement of HARRY BRUNJES, who held the role for over a decade.

Jeffreys joined the ENO board in 2019 and has served as deputy chair and chair of its artistic committee. HILARY NEWISS, a trustee since February 2023, will take up the role of interim deputy chair.

Currently a freelance creative consultant and coach, Jeffreys was artistic director of Barbican Centre from 2010 to 2020 and has previously led theatre and arts projects.

Before the Barbican, her roles included administrative director at the Nottingham Playhouse, head of production at Bayerische Staatsoper, Munich, and technical director at the ENO.

Newiss was formerly a partner in a city law firm and specialised in intellectual property. She is currently chair of the British Science Association and was previously a trustee of the Natural History Museum.

Jeffreys said, “ENO is a company which has been close to my heart for decades, so I am honoured to be asked to take on the role of interim chair.

“As a trustee, I have learned so much from Harry Brunjes’s inspirational leadership. I now look forward to leading the board and executive as we continue our history of innovation in opera and develop exciting new work for audiences in Greater Manchester and London.”

JENNY MOLLICA, CEO of ENO, added, “Louise’s deep knowledge of the company combined with her extensive industry experience and expertise remain of immense importance to us as we move forward with our ambitious plans for the future.”