Chief Executive Officer

job description

Closing Date: Monday 9 February 2026

Location: London and Greater Manchester

Time Commitment: Full-time

English National Opera (ENO) is one of the UK’s most iconic cultural institutions, dedicated to creating extraordinary encounters with opera on stage and beyond. For over 90 years, we have championed opera without limits – work of the highest artistic ambition, made accessible to the widest possible audience. As we look ahead to our Centenary Year in 2031, we are entering a bold new chapter: expanding our presence in Greater Manchester, deepening our national impact, and reimagining what opera can mean for the communities we serve.

We are seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer to lead ENO and the London Coliseum through this defining moment. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a world-class organisation, galvanise our people, and deliver artistic and social impact on a national scale.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will:

• Drive ENO’s strategic growth and evolution into a dual-base national opera company.

• Partner with our Artistic and Music Directors to deliver an inspiring, diverse programme that reaches new audiences.

• Lead the creative and commercial operation of the London Coliseum, maximising its potential while safeguarding its cultural significance.

• Champion ENO’s values of creativity, excellence, togetherness and trust, fostering an inclusive and empowering culture.

• Ensure financial resilience through innovative business models, income diversification and strong governance.

• Act as ENO’s principal ambassador, advocating for opera and the performing arts locally, nationally and internationally.

We welcome applications from individuals with:

• Proven senior leadership experience within opera, theatre, arts or creative industries.

• A track record of delivering organisational strategy that balances artistic ambition with financial sustainability.

• Experience of leading multi-disciplinary teams and managing significant change.

• Experience of building strong relationships with Partners/Funding Bodies and developing strong networks in the arts/creative sectors

• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of fundraising environments.

• A collaborative, values-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

This is a full-time executive role based across London and Greater Manchester.

English National Opera is committed to diversity and inclusion and warmly encourages applications from all backgrounds.

To find out more about this exciting role, please click apply online

For a confidential discussion, please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson:

Jennie Wood, Research Lead: jennie.wood@gatenbysanderson.com

Rebekah Herz-Bauman, Partner: rebekah.herz-bauman@gatenbysanderson.com