After an extensive national search, West Australian Ballet has appointed experienced leader Olivier David as Executive Director, partnering with Artistic Director Aurélien Scannella as the Company’s co-leaders.
David joins the State Ballet Company with comprehensive executive and operational experience in multi-national companies in Australia and abroad, following the resignation of Jessica Machin (to join WA Museum as Director Regions).
“On behalf of the Board, we are delighted to announce that Olivier David is joining our team as Executive Director, to lead our wonderful Company together with Artistic Director Aurélien Scannella,” said Sherry Duhe, Chair of West Australian Ballet. “The Company is in great hands with Aurélien and Olivier at the helm, as we continue to delight audiences with our world-class performances and progress our significant growth aspirations.”
West Australian Ballet has grown significantly in Scannella’s tenure as Artistic Director, with the Company adding numerous acclaimed productions into repertoire, introducing international and Australian creatives to Western Australia, increased diversity and technical standards within the 39 dancers, and the building of a nation-leading Health and Wellbeing program.
“I am delighted to welcome Olivier David into the West Australian Ballet family,” said Aurélien Scannella, artistic director of West Australian Ballet. “With his excellent professional record and passion for the arts, I have no doubt that Olivier will bring a new perspective and drive to our Company. Together, Olivier and I will ensure we lead West Australian Ballet to even greater heights.”
Aurélien Scannella.
Photo by Frances Andrijich.
Impressing the search panel with his strong business and commercial acumen as well as demonstrated leadership skills and love for the arts, David’s most recent role was as Head of Customer Care and Credit for L’Oréal Group Australia after having also held significant leadership roles in The Swatch Group, Richemont Group, Quintessentially and other international organisations.
He also has over nine years of volunteer involvement in various national artistic organisations, most notably with Musica Viva as a Council Member, and the Society of Organists.
“West Australian Ballet are deeply grateful for the impeccable leadership and guidance provided by Dr Robert Edwardes, a former West Australian Ballet Chair, Honorary Life Member and long-time friend of the Ballet who for the past several months has fulfilled the role of Interim Executive Director,” said Duhe.
The State Ballet Company extends its gratitude to executive search firm Lester Blades for conducting a high-quality executive search.
David commences at West Australian Ballet on 17 May.
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