The Australian Ballet School has announced the appointment of Sarah Hunt as its new Executive Director, set to commence on July 21, 2025.
Hunt brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over 25 years of leadership and operational expertise within the creative industries across Australia and the UK. For the past five years, she has served as the Chief Executive Officer for The National in Melbourne, an organisation that encompasses an 800-seat theatre and a Registered Training Organisation, including The National Drama School and The National Ballet School. Her extensive background also includes significant leadership positions at Arts Centre Melbourne and Bangarra Dance Theatre.
Sarah Matheson AM, Chair of the Board, commented on the appointment, stating, “This significant appointment was made following a global search that attracted outstanding candidates from Australia and abroad. With her visionary, empathetic, and strategic leadership skills developed throughout her career, Sarah is perfectly positioned to take the School to the next phase in its development.”
Speaking about her new role, Sarah Hunt said, “I am deeply honoured to be appointed Executive Director of The Australian Ballet School. I am excited to work with the Board and Artistic Director and Head of School, Megan Connelly, to advance The Australian Ballet School. I look forward to working together to progress the strategic goals, forge strong partnerships and enrich the organisational culture.”
Megan Connelly, Artistic Director and Head of School, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “I am thrilled by the appointment of Sarah Hunt as our new Executive Director. Together, we are set to lead The Australian Ballet School into an exciting new chapter. I look forward to working closely with Sarah as we implement the new strategic plan and continue to nurture the exceptional talent within the School.”
Sarah Hunt's expertise spans marketing, communications, philanthropy, innovation, and audience experience. She holds a degree from the University of London and worked in the live performing arts industry in London, including at The National Theatre of Great Britain and the Donmar Warehouse, before moving to Australia in 2013.
The Australian Ballet School, established in 1964, is renowned for its internationally recognised full-time vocational training program, preparing young artists for professional dance careers. As a Registered Training Organisation, it maintains close ties with national and international performing arts companies, serving as the primary talent pipeline for The Australian Ballet and seeing its graduates join leading dance companies worldwide. The School emphasises a holistic approach to student development, combining world-class dance training with extensive academic and wellbeing programs.