Belvoir Announces Appointment of New Executive Director

Belvoir has just announced the appointment of Sue Donnelly, one of Australia's most prominent and experienced arts administrators, to the position of Executive Director of the legendary theatre company.

Sam Meers, Belvoir Chair, said today, "I'm thrilled to be announcing Sue Donnelly's appointment as Executive Director and Co-CEO of Belvoir. Sue has been appointed after an extensive recruitment process that included interviews with an impressive short list of potential international and Australian candidates. The breadth and depth of Sue's experience across the industry, and the esteem in which she is held by colleagues worldwide, make her the standout choice as our new Executive Director. We look forward to an exciting future under her joint leadership of the company with our Artistic Director, Eamon Flack".

Since 2012 Donnelly has led Queensland Theatre ensuring its position as one of the best in the country. During that time the company's financial position has been bolstered by record ticket sales, increased corporate partnerships and philanthropy, significant national touring and numerous industry awards.

Donnelly comes to Belvoir at an exciting time after widespread acclaim for receNT Productions including The Drover's Wife, Faith Healer, Jasper Jones, and winning Best Play for Leah Purcell's The Drover's Wife at the Helpmann Awards.

Belvoir Artistic Director Eamon Flack said of the appointment "this is very good news. Sue is an old friend of Belvoir's, she knows the company from the inside and she's very much at home with its idiosyncrasies. Her sense of the work we make and the kinds of risks this company is built on, is excellent. She knows what makes Belvoir special and she'll fight the good fight. I'm particularly pleased because Sue was the acting General Manager when I joined Belvoir as the Literary Manager in 2006. She was tough-minded and kind-hearted then, and she is now. We'll make a good odd couple, I think, in the best possible way. It's terrific news".

Donnelly says "Belvoir is very close to my heart and I'm absolutely delighted to take up the position of Executive Director and work alongside Eamon Flack, Sam Meers and all the passionate staff, artists and board members who make this such a great company. I believe theatre can change people for the better - it brings together a community who can share laughter and sadness, be entertained and provoked, and imagine life experiences completely different to one's own. For 33 years Belvoir has championed this and I look forward to being part of it again."

The position of Executive Director was vacated by Brenna Hobson who held the position since 2008. Brenna departed the company for the position of Executive Producer of the world-renowned National Theatre of Scotland.

Prior to Queensland Theatre, Sue was Executive Director of the national lobbying and advocacy organisation Australian Major Performing Arts Group (AMPAG). With more than 25 years' experience in arts and cultural development, health and social policy Donnelly has held a diverse range of senior executive positions including Director, UNSW Foundation; Director South East Arts (UK); Public Affairs Manager, Sydney Symphony Orchestra; General Manager, Company B Belvoir and Director of Arts Development, Arts NSW.

Donnelly has also consulted and lectured in arts business development and management, and served on wide-ranging Government advisory boards, funding committees and tribunals, as well as the boards of numerous arts and not-for profit companies. She is currently on the boards of Chunky Move and Australian Performing Arts Centres Association (APACA), and the LPA Executive Council.

Sue will commence the role at Belvoir from November.

To post a comment, you must register and login.