The Royal Opera is seeking a Director Opera with experience in leading an organization within opera and the performing arts. We believe that you are a leader with high ambitions, a sense of quality, and a willingness to combine strong tradition with innovation to develop the Royal Opera and the art of opera.The Director Opera has overall responsibility for the Opera section and all its constituent functions, that consists of approximately 100 employees. As a manager and leader, you are responsible for leading and planning the activities of the opera section, as well as having total budget responsibility for the section in both the short and long term. The Director Opera actively supports the production processes and implementation of opera performances. In all artistic matters, such as repertoire planning and casting, the Director Opera collaborates with the Music Director, Alan Gilbert. The Music Director has the overall responsibility for the musical quality and direction of the Royal Swedish Opera.The Opera house is facing a major renovation and is expected to close for renovation in the second half of 2026. The renovation, estimated to take 3-5 years to complete, means that temporary premises will be arranged for all productions and performances. Given the upcoming challenge of the renovation work, creative ideas regarding repertoire planning, alternative formats, and stages, as well as collaborations, are particularly important. A specific challenge during this period will also be to maintain the quality of the opera, ensure audience interest and simultaneously motivate employees during an extraordinary period. Another important role for the Director Opera is to develop artistic networks in Sweden and internationally in the long term. The Director Opera is a member of the management team and reports to the CEO of the Royal Swedish Opera.
Main areas of responsibility
- Responsibility for the planning and daily operations of the Opera section
- Collaborate with the Music Director to establish artistic vision, determine repertoire, and cast roles
- Personnel management for the Opera section
- Drive development across all aspects of the Opera section
- Oversee the commissioning of new works in collaboration with the Music Director
- Casting responsibility; engage singers, directors, and other creators in collaboration with the Music Director
- Actively contribute to the overall operation, quality, and development of the Royal Swedish Opera as a member of the Management Team
Background and experience
- Documented experience in a leadership position in an opera house or similar institution
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop employees
- Extensive and broad knowledge of opera repertoire
- Musical and vocal assessment competence
- Familiarity with the Swedish opera industry, artistic teams, and an international network
- Experience in budget management and resource allocation
- Relevant educational background
Personal characteristics
- Communicative and clear, fostering participation
- Structured and comfortable with planning, follow-up, and organization
- Quality-conscious, goal-oriented, and decisive
- Attentive, solution-oriented, and capable of engaging others
- Ability to cultivate relationships and advocate for collaboration
- Comfortable in complex organizational settings
- Balanced and self-assured
Does it sound interesting? Click on "Apply now" and attach your CV and personal letter no later than May 15, 2024. If you have questions about the position, please contact Anna Malmström at anna.malmstrom@novare.se or Molly Håkansson at molly.hakansson@novare.se