Brünjes and Pollock continue to steer the ENO ship

English National Opera has today announced the permanent appointment of Dr Harry Brünjes as its chairman, with immediate effect. Dr Brünjes has been a trustee of the ENO board since September 2010. He was made acting chairman in February 2015 when he replaced Martyn Rose, who resigned from the role, accusing the then artistic director John Berry of financial mismanagement.

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“It has been a privilege to serve on the ENO board for the past five years and I’m delighted to take on the role of chairman at such an exciting, transformational time for ENO and the London Coliseum,” said Brünjes. “... I look forward to leading a company dedicated to producing the highest quality opera which is accessible to everyone and to securing the future of our iconic building.”

ENO has also confirmed that Cressida Pollock, appointed interim chief executive officer in March, is extending her contract with the company for a further three years. Pollock replaced, in part, Henriette Götz who also stepped down as executive director only days after Rose’s resignation.

“As we enter this new era, I recognise that we face significant challenges – not least to reduce our reliance on public subsidy,” said Pollock. “However, I am convinced we can succeed and that, with our world-class team, we can continue to produce brilliant opera for audience members in London and around the UK.”

Meanwhile, ENO, whose 2015-16 season – the first under music director Mark Wigglesworth – begins on 26 September with Shostakovich’s Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, are currently without an artistic director. Two months ago John Berry announced his departure after a decade in the role, with immediate effect.

The board is currently undertaking a full evaluation of the artistic leadership; for this season, the artistic leadership team comprises Wigglesworth, Terri-Jayne Griffin as producing director, John McMurray as senior artistic adviser, and Bob Holland in the role of programming director. Former casting and ENO Harewood Artists manager Sophie Joyce moves to replace McMurray as head of casting.

Further announcements regarding the artistic leadership of ENO will be made in due course. “A new team will certainly be in place by this time next year,” said a spokesperson.