Opera Australia’s CEO to Step Down

Fiona Allan has decided to leave her role at the opera company after three years

After leading Opera Australia (OA) in its post-COVID revival, Fiona Allan has decided to depart her role as CEO to pursue new opportunities. 

Highlights in Allan’s tenure included collaborating with guest director Lindy Hume on the summer 2024 program and establishing a new Young Artist Program, among other outreach initiatives that have strengthened ties between communities across the country. 

More key achievements involved the Ring Cycle in Brisbane, Lohengrin featuring Jonas Kaufmann, and the launch of the free BMW Opera for All series in Melbourne. Other events included Opera Up Late, which premiered during World Pride 2023 and has since become an annual event.

While the board begins its search for Allan’s permanent successor, OA’s Chief Operating Officer Simon Militano will be serving as Acting CEO. 

In the meantime, OA’s 2025 season has begun at the Sydney Opera House and programming for 2026 is confirmed, as is planning for future seasons. 

“Fiona’s tireless work has enabled the company to regain its momentum post-COVID and put in place a clear strategic direction for a sustainable future,” said Opera Australia Chair Rod Sims. “Fiona has positioned OA well to continue its evolution in the complex environment in which all arts organisations are operating. 

“The Board of Directors, the Executive Team, and our company of artists, creatives and arts workers express their gratitude to Fiona for her strong strategic leadership and exceptional efforts bringing OA back into production post-COVID, and for laying a solid foundation for OA to achieve its purpose to be an opera company for a 21st-century Australia,” he added. “We wish Fiona all the very best in her future endeavours and look forward to the continued growth and renewal of the company.”

“It has been a privilege and an honour to lead Australia’s national opera company,” Allan expressed. “After more than three deeply rewarding years as CEO, the time has come for me to explore new opportunities in cultural leadership while reconnecting with my international networks,” she added. “What has inspired me most, however, are the extraordinary people of Opera Australia“From our Executive Team, gifted musicians, singers, and creative teams to the dedicated professionals working behind the scenes, it has been a privilege to collaborate with such talented and passionate individuals. It has been an honour to serve Opera Australia, and I am excited to watch its continued growth and success in the years ahead.”