English National Opera announces Jenny Mollica as new Chief Executive

The English National Opera has announced the appointment of Jenny Mollica as Chief Executive of both ENO and the London Coliseum with immediate effect.

Mollica has served as Interim Chief Executive of ENO since August 2023, after joining the company in 2020 as Director of Strategy and Engagement. Before this, she worked at the Barbican and Guildhall School of Music & Drama for over a decade in various roles, including Director of Creative Learning, where she developed a range of participatory programmes in music, theatre, dance, visual arts, film, and literature.

In her recent role, she has collaborated closely with ENO’s Governing Board and Executive on the organisation’s strategic management, business planning, and governance. This includes developing new partnerships and plans for the company’s relocation to Greater Manchester.

Mollica has also overseen the expansion of the ENO Engage programme nationally, including the creative health and wellbeing initiative ENO Breathe, now available through more than 90 NHS Partners. Additionally, she has led new digital programmes at ENO, including as Co-Executive Producer on a TV and broadcast project for Sky Kids and Sky Arts aimed at introducing family audiences to opera.

Annilese Miskimmon, Artistic Director of ENO and the London Coliseum, commented on Mollica’s appointment: “I am absolutely delighted that the Board have appointed Jenny. She is a wonderful, talented and supportive colleague and collaborator. I am looking forward to continuing our work together with the rest of the company as we move forward with our ambitious plans for London and Greater Manchester over the coming years.”

Mollica herself expressed: “I am immensely proud to be entrusted with leading ENO towards its new future, serving the communities of London and Greater Manchester, and continuing our work on a national and international scale. Now, more than ever, ENO has a vital and unique role to play in the future of this extraordinary art form, and it is thrilling to be at the helm as we look ahead to this next act in the company’s life. I look forward to continuing to work with Annilese, the ENO Board, and our exceptionally talented and dedicated company to shape and define this period of creative renewal for ENO, opening up new possibilities for opera in people’s lives in London, Greater Manchester, and beyond.”

English National Opera recently announced its 2024/25 season at the London Coliseum.