WA Ballet hires new executive director

West Australian Ballet has appointed international businessman Olivier David as its executive director, after a lengthy national search.

Mr David joins the company following the resignation of Jessica Machin in November 2020.

He most recently worked as head of customer care and credit at L’Oreal Group Australia in Melbourne after holding several national and international leadership positions.

Prior to joining L’Oreal, he worked at Swatch Group Australia as head of customer service in Melbourne.

He worked in Hong Kong for several years as director of operations and service for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa for luxury lifestyle group Quintessentially and as the deputy regional director at arts logistics company Integrated Fine Arts Solutions.  

Mr David has volunteer experience with several arts organisations, including with the Musica Viva as a council member and the Society of Organists.

He will co-lead the company with WA Ballet artistic director Aurélien Scannella, a leadership structure which started in 2016.

Mr Scannella said he was delighted to welcome Mr David to the company.

“With his excellent professional record and passion for the arts, I have no doubt that Olivier will bring a new perspective and drive to our company,” Mr Scannella said.

WA Ballet chair Sherry Duhe said the company was in great hands with the pair at the helm.

Ms Duhe thanked former WA Ballet chair, honorary life member and friend of the ballet Robert Edwardes for serving as acting executive director.

WA Ballet enlisted the help of recruitment firm Lester Blades to make the appointment.

Mr David will start his new role on May 17.