English National Opera (ENO) announced the appointment of alum Helen Shute as its new Chief Executive Officer yesterday. She will also become Chief Executive of London Coliseum Limited, taking up both roles in November 2026.
Helen graduated from Trinity Laban in 2002 with a BA (Hons) in Dance Theatre. She joins ENO from Rambert, where she has served as Chief Executive and Executive Producer since 2017. She succeeds Jenny Mollica, who steps down in May after six years with the company.
During her time at Rambert, Helen has led an ambitious programme of new commissions and major revivals, working with partners including The Royal Ballet and Manchester International Festival. She has expanded the company’s national and international reach and strengthened its position as a leading contemporary dance organisation.
Helen takes up the role at a pivotal moment for ENO, as the company continues to build on its bold artistic programme and national impact, expanding its work in Greater Manchester alongside its London season.
Louise Jeffreys, Chair of the ENO Board, said: “We’re delighted to appoint Helen Shute as Chief Executive of English National Opera and London Coliseum Limited, following a rigorous process led by the ENO Board. Helen is an exceptional leader with a strong track record in the cultural sector, combining artistic ambition with operational excellence and a deep commitment to broadening access to the arts. The Board was unanimous in its decision, and we are confident Helen will provide strong and thoughtful leadership as the company approaches its centenary. Working alongside the outstanding creative leadership of Annilese Miskimmon and André de Ridder, and building on the excellent legacy left by Jenny Mollica, Helen will shape a bold and sustainable future for ENO in London, Greater Manchester and nationally.”
Helen Shute said: “I’m delighted to join English National Opera and London Coliseum Limited and to have, alongside the daring artistic leadership of Annilese Miskimmon and André de Ridder, the opportunity to shape the ambitions of a national organisation at such an exciting time in its extraordinary history. It’s an honour to build on Jenny Mollica and her brilliant leadership team’s achievements and to join an exceptional group of artists, staff and partners who believe in the fundamental importance of art to the human experience and that opera should belong to everyone. I look forward to together imagining an innovative new future for opera in Greater Manchester, London and worldwide.”