Executive creative recruitment firm, Hourigan International, has been appointed by The Australian Ballet to source a new executive director for the flagship dance organisation.
The move follows last October’s news that current executive director, Valerie Wilder, would leave the Ballet at the completion of her five-year contract in June 2013.
The chair of The Australian Ballet Board, Chris Knoblanche, said the Board would not be limiting its search to arts administrators.
“I and the Board welcome the opportunity to see leaders from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience. Of course it’s expected that they will have a strong affinity and love of the arts, but we’re also looking for someone who can balance creativity with a strong business sensibility to drive The Australian Ballet into its next phase of growth,” said Knoblanche.
CEO of Hourigan International, Anthony Hourigan (pictured), said: "The Australian Ballet is one of this country’s most iconic arts organisations, so we're thrilled to be assisting them in finding their next creative leader.
“We look forward to unearthing outstanding candidates from marketing, advertising, arts and commercial backgrounds.”
The Australian Ballet was founded in 1962 and annually presents over 800 performances and education events throughout Australia, in addition to regular international touring making it “one of the busiest ballet companies in the world”.
The company has recently completed its 50th anniversary celebrations which saw over 2.5 million Australians engage with the Ballet through performances, online and broadcast.