Melbourne Theatre Company today announced the appointment of Anne-Louise Sarks as its new Chief Executive Officer. To increase alignment between Melbourne Theatre Company’s creative vision, strategy and operations, and following an external review of the Company’s leadership structure, the Company is moving from a Co-CEO model to a single CEO model.
Following an internal application process, Anne-Louise Sarks was appointed. The current Executive Director & Co-CEO, Sally Noonan, opted not to apply for the sole CEO role and will soon conclude her time with the company.
Anne-Louise Sarks has led the creative direction of Melbourne Theatre Company as Artistic Director and Co-CEO since 2021. In this role she has directed critical and commercial successes including My Brilliant Career, A Streetcar Named Desire, a revival of David Williamson's The Removalists, and Rebecca, which she also adapted. Her work has delighted existing audiences and attracted new ones. As Co-CEO she has ensured that the organisation is well-placed for the future and its next stage of success.
Mr Martin Hosking, Chair of the Board of Melbourne Theatre Company, said: “We are proud to announce the appointment of Anne-Louise as our new Chief Executive Officer. We are confident that her passion, creative and organisational leadership and vision for theatre will ensure the Company will continue its leading creative role in Australia.”
“Sally has played a decisive role in a difficult time of transition for the Company. Her international expertise, extensive experience and tireless work have allowed her to make crucial contributions and helped position the Company for coming years. We are working closely with Sally as we transition to the new structure. The Melbourne Theatre Company Board thanks her for her contribution.”
“Melbourne Theatre Company is proud of its outstanding record of artistic output over many decades. We’re committed to strengthening this legacy and supporting our artists and community in a way that sustains and enriches future generations. The connectivity, community and storytelling that is unique to theatre as an art form has never been more important than it is right now.”
“A sole CEO will enhance the organisation’s agility and responsiveness, helping it to build on its outstanding record in an increasingly dynamic and complex operating environment.”
Anne-Louise Sarks, Melbourne Theatre Company Chief Executive Officer, said: “I want to thank Sally Noonan for her leadership these past two years. She has been instrumental in everything we have achieved. We have built significant momentum over our recent seasons, and we will continue that next year with our exciting and bold 2026 season of plays. I’m honoured by the faith the Board has placed in me.”
Anne-Louise’s appointment is effective from 10 November.
Published on 11 November 2025
