Sophie Travers appointed Director at Melbourne’s newest creative precinct – Collingwood Yards

Collingwood-Yards-Sophie-Travers-photo-by-Natalie-JurrjensFollowing a rigorous three month recruitment process, the Collingwood Yards Board has announced the appointment of Sophie Travers as Director of the precinct.

Sophie brings a deep knowledge and connection to the international and local arts sector, with expertise across strategic planning, organisational development, project management, policy and governance.

With a career spanning the globe and diverse experience in federal agencies, local government and independent arts, Sophie is well equipped to support the newly opened precinct as it begins the public phase of its journey.

“Sophie’s work and career has long championed the values that also sit at the core of Collingwood Yards: community, creativity and collaboration,” said Collingwood Yards Chair, Daniel Besen. “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sophie to the Collingwood Yards team and look forward to the next phase of our evolution.”

Sophie comes to Collingwood Yards from the City of Melbourne, where she has undertaken a range of roles. As General Manager, Creative Programs she led strategic planning across arts venues Arts House, Artplay and Signal, with a hands-on leadership role of a large team and busy venue at Arts House.

As acting Strategy Lead for the Creative City Branch she also supported work in creative infrastructure planning, public art and grant-making.

“I am excited to join the team, tenants and community at Collingwood Yards. I have been watching the site come to life and feel very lucky to contribute to this next stage of connection and growth,” said Sophie

“Thank you to the many visionaries who created these opportunities for artists and their communities to thrive. Thanks also to those who have moved in with their big ideas and energies.”

Sophie’s work will build on the contributions of founding CEO, Marcus Westbury, who led the project, team and tenant community through five years of planning, redevelopment and establishment of the tenant community.

Now that Collingwood Yards has officially opened, Sophie will lead the precinct in its next phase, focus on exploring new models of partnering, cross-disciplinary approaches and community engagement. Sophie will begin her tenure in early May.

The Collingwood Yards Board extends its deepest appreciation to Jacquelin Low for her exemplary work in steering the organisation in recent months. Jac will resume her role as General Manager from Monday 3 May. The Board also thanks the team for their hard work and commitment during this period.


For more information about Collingwood Yards, visit: www.collingwoodyards.org for details.

Image: Sophie Travers on site at Collingwood Yards – photo by Natalie Jurrjens