Geelong Arts Centre Trust appoints Rhys Holden as new Chief Executive and Creative Director

The Geelong Arts Centre Trust has appointed Rhys Holden as their new Chief Executive and Creative Director. With an impressive background as an arts leader, general manager and producer, Holden is set to steer Geelong Arts Centre into its exciting next chapter.

Geelong Arts Centre is the only Victorian Government owned cultural institution located outside of Melbourne and exists as a leader, connector and creator of extraordinary cultural experiences for local and global communities.

Holden shared "I believe strongly in the powerful impact of diverse and bold arts and cultural experiences on communities. Geelong Arts Centre has a long history as a cultural leader. I'm honoured to be working with the Trust and the incredible team at Geelong Arts Centre to deliver on the ambition and potential of the world-class new facilities built on the lands and storytelling traditions of the Wadawurrung People."

Holden brings to the role extensive experience in the creative sector, having previously worked for large-scale commercial productions, major performing arts companies and in the small-to-medium arts sector. Most recently he worked as General Manager Mona Foma & Mona Music; produced commercial productions for Michael Cassel Group and was General Manager and Executive Producer of La Boite Theatre Company and Roundhouse Theatre.

In his previous roles, Holden demonstrated exceptional talent in driving growth and innovation. He spearheaded initiatives that resulted in diverse community connections, significant sales, ticketing results and strategic organisational change. Holden will join the Geelong Arts Centre team in July 2024 and his expertise over a broad spectrum of the creative economy will be instrumental in advancing Geelong Arts Centre's mission to deliver creative experiences to its audiences.

Holden holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA); a Bachelor of Arts and Psychology and is currently a board member of Ausdance Victoria. He is passionate about fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration, ensuring that Geelong Arts Centre remains at the forefront of industry trends and customer experiences.

Geelong Arts Centre Chairperson Lesley Alway enthused "we are thrilled to welcome Rhys to the Geelong Arts Centre family. Rhys has a remarkable ability to blend creativity, community focus and commercial acumen with strategic insight, which makes him the perfect fit for leading us into the next stage."

Victorian Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks adds "Rhys brings a wealth of creative industries knowledge, networks and experience to the helm of Geelong Arts Centre, and is well placed to lead what is now the largest regional performing arts complex in Australia. With world-class facilities, great local talent and a vibrant and diverse creative community, I look forward to Rhys's contribution to the cultural life of the region and to our creative state more broadly."