Chief Executive recruitment
16 February 2026
Image © Andy Paradise/BBC
As John Harte steps down after 16 years, Aurora’s board is seeking an inspirational Chief Executive to work alongside co-founders Jane Mitchell (Artistic Director) and Nicholas Collon (Principal Conductor). This is a rare opportunity to lead an orchestra at the cutting edge of classical music, with key challenges including ensuring continuing artistic success, consolidating financial resilience, and managing growth as Aurora matures.
Reporting to the board chaired by Dame Liz Forgan DBE, the new Chief Executive will have overall responsibility for strategic planning, financial health and day-to-day operations. Working as creative executive producer with the artistic leadership, they will lead the staff team, develop new partnerships and touring opportunities, provide overall leadership of fundraising including a new Philanthropy Committee, and act as Aurora’s ambassador across the arts and education sectors.
They will bring the ability to build strong rapport with artists and act as an effective executive producing partner, with entrepreneurial instincts and appetite for risk. Essential experience includes financial direction and budget management, leading complex projects and teams, and a strong fundraising track record. Outstanding communication skills and a collaborative approach are vital. Orchestral knowledge would be advantageous, but we welcome candidates from non-orchestral backgrounds who demonstrate enthusiasm for Aurora’s mission.
Aurora Orchestra is working with Perrett Laver to recruit to this role. For further details please visit Perrett Laver’s website.