Leading strategist and corporate consultant Tim Orton has been announced as the incoming Chair of the Melbourne International Arts Festival Board.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley has announced the appointment, naming Mr Orton as an ideal successor to Maureen Wheeler, who will retire as Chair at the conclusion of the 2018 festival.
“From world-premiere performances, to public art, music, dance, exhibitions and more, Melbourne International Arts Festival celebrates all aspects of our Creative State,” said Minister Foley. “Tim Orton is an ideal successor, bringing invaluable strategy and planning expertise to the role.”
“The Festival has benefited enormously from Maureen Wheeler’s leadership and I thank her for her commitment and contribution over the last three years.”
Mr Orton is a managing director and founder of Nous Group – Australia’s largest locally-founded management consulting firm. A Rhodes Scholar with a Master of Arts from Oxford University, he has provided expert strategy and planning advice to companies and government departments Australia-wide – consulting on projects across the creative, technology, health, environment, education, financial services and economic growth sectors.
He has also worked with a range of Victorian creative organisations including Melbourne Fringe, Snuff Puppets and Back to Back Theatre, as well as held board positions with the Australia Council for the Arts, and the Geelong Performing Arts Centre – which he chaired for 11 years.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the Melbourne International Arts Festival board and team, and I feel fortunate to be following the outstanding leadership provided by Maureen Wheeler,” said Mr Orton. “MIAF celebrates and reinforces Melbourne’s international cultural reputation, and as with everything in the arts, I look forward to being part of MIAF’s on-going development and change.”
Celebrating its 32nd year in October, Mr Orton joins the Melbourne International Arts Festival Board in the lead up to the 2018 festival, which will take place from 3 – 21 October. Following this year’s event, he will take the mantle from Maureen Wheeler who has served in the role for three years.
For more information about the Melbourne International Arts Festival, visit: www.festival.melbourne for details.
Image: Tim Orton (sourced)