Sally Noonan confirmed as Melbourne Theatre Company’s new Executive Director and Co-CEO

Sally Noonan joins the company with over 20 years’ experience in leadership roles across the cultural sector, in Australia and the UK. Recently as Walsh Bay Arts Precinct Manager, Sally established operations and cross-precinct collaboration for the $371 million redevelopment, a harbourside arts precinct for nine of Australia’s performing arts companies, including Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Theatre Company.

Prior to this, Sally Noonan was Chief Operating Officer at London’s Donmar Warehouse playing a central role in the development of the theatre’s strategic vision, financial planning and business goals. She was also the Director of Development & Deputy Executive Director for Almeida Theatre, managing organisational change of an incoming Artistic Director and developing the strategic plan for the company’s Government funding. In addition, Ms Noonan has held Development leadership roles at the National Art School and Sydney Theatre Company.

Working in partnership with the Artistic Director & Co-CEO, Anne-Louise Sarks, Sally will be tasked with strengthening the Company’s post-Covid recovery and realising the Company’s vision and values.

“2023 marks the 70th anniversary for the Company, and Sally Noonan’s experience in strategy, operations, development and leading cultural organisations through times of change makes her the perfect person to continue shepherding us through COVID recovery and laying the foundation for the next 70 years,” said Ms Hansen AO. “On behalf of the Board, we welcome Sally and look forward to working with her, in what is an exciting new chapter for the Company.”

Speaking about her appointment, incoming Executive Director & Co-CEO, Sally Noonan said:

Melbourne Theatre Company plays such a crucial role enriching Australia’s cultural landscape. From its annual season to industry-leading access and education programs, it has always been a power-house company. I am genuinely inspired by the new vision. I can’t wait to get back inside a producing theatre company and to work with Anne-Louise and the whole team to help make that vision a reality.

Anne-Louise Sarks said:

I am thrilled to begin working with Sally to lead Melbourne Theatre Company into its exciting next phase. For 20 years Sally has dedicated her career to organisations that give artists the licence to make work on their terms. Her experience in connecting audiences and engaging stakeholders with live performance makes her perfectly suited for this role.

Sally Noonan’s appointment follows the recent announcement of Martina Murray as Executive Producer & Deputy CEO, a newly created role working with the Executive Director and Artistic Director, to ensure the realisation of the vision aligns to a long-term strategy that develops sustainably.

Sally Noonan will commence her role with Melbourne Theatre Company on April 3, 2023.