Emma Stenning appointed chief executive of CBSO

The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) has announced the appointment of Emma Stenning to the role of chief executive. Starting her new role on 3 April, Stenning will succeed Stephen Maddock who, after 24 years at the helm, has left the orchestra to take up the role of principal at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Stenning will move to Birmingham from Toronto, where she held the role of executive director with Soulpepper Theatre, the city’s largest not-for-profit theatre company. She will work with the orchestra for two days a week before joining it full-time role in mid-July. In her new role Stenning will work closely with the CBSO’s musicians, board members and artistic team as well as the orchestra’s new chief conductor and artistic advisor Kazuki Yamada.

Announcing the appointment, Yamada said: ‘I am thrilled that we will be able to create a new page in the history of the CBSO together. Emma brings exceptional leadership, sensitivity and intelligence which will enhance the positive spirit inherent in the culture of the CBSO. The CBSO, whom I love dearly, will continue to be an orchestra that attracts the attention of the world, and I am very much looking forward to being a part of this next chapter, facing exciting new challenges alongside the CBSO musicians, CBSO staff and Emma.’

The appointment follows an extensive search process led by a committee of CBSO musicians, board members, management, and external industry leaders. Stenning brings a broad range of experience to the CBSO, with previous positions including chief executive of Bristol Old Vic, executive director of Battersea Arts Centre, head of theatre at Arts Council England, head of producing for the 2009 Manchester International Festival, and cultural programme advisor at the London Organising Committee for the 2012 Olympic Games.

Alongside her new role with CBSo, Stenning will continue to serve on the US Board of Shakespeare’s Globe and as a member of Globe Council. She is also a trustee of theatre companies Cheek By Jowl and the Wardrobe Ensemble as well as chair of Shoreditch Town Hall.

Stenning said: ‘I have been entirely captivated by the CBSO’s exquisite artistry, pioneering spirit and sense of adventure. The company’s mission that “every life be enriched by music” echoes my own, and is evident in all it does, held tightly by players and staff alike. I am thrilled to lead us onwards, ever thankful for Stephen Maddock’s remarkable tenure, and looking forward to developing my own collaboration with Kazuki Yamada and the creative leadership that will come to define the future of this extraordinary orchestra.’