The English National Opera is beginning to plant its roots in Manchester, with 3 new regional trustees.
Joining its board are Professor Malcolm Press CBE and Vanda Murray OBE, who will take up their roles in February 2026, alongside Caroline Julian, who joins the board this month.
Professor Malcolm Press CBE has been Vice Chancellor or Manchester Metropolitan University since 2015 and holds a number of international advisory and trustee roles.
“I’m honoured to be joining the ENO Board at such an exciting moment in the organisation’s history,” he said.
“ENO’s growing partnership with Greater Manchester, alongside its longstanding creative home in London, represents a powerful national model for opera. I look forward to supporting the company’s work as it expands opportunities for artists, audiences and communities.’
Vanda Murray OBE is Chair of Marshalls plc and Yorkshire Water. While Caroline Julian is Brand and Engagement Director at British Cycling, she’s previously been Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Creative UK.
“What attracted me to ENO is its ambition to be a truly national company – rooted in Greater Manchester and London while strengthening its reach, engagement and impact with communities nationwide,” explained Julian.
“The creativity and collaborations emerging in these places are hugely exciting, and I’m delighted to support ENO as it continues to innovate.”
READ MORE – English National Opera to move to Manchester
Their appointment comes ahead of the ENO’s move to Greater Manchester. In 2022, the organisation was told to leave London or face a £12m reduction in Arts Council Funding.
It’s already started commissioning in the region, ahead of the full move, which will be by 2029.
The new trustees will support its Greater Manchester Partnership, which covers all aspects of opera production and new possibilities for the artform.
“We’re delighted to welcome Caroline, Vanda and Malcolm to the ENO Board,” said Louise Jeffreys, Chair, English National Opera.
“Their depth of expertise, leadership experience and strong connections to Greater Manchester’s cultural, civic and business communities will be invaluable as our partnership with the city region continues apace, while also strengthening ENO’s ongoing work in London and across the country.”
