Upon the announcement that Barbara Glaser will be stepping down after 17 years, and following a rigorous international search, Geraint Martin, Chair of the APO is delighted to announce Diana Weir as the orchestra’s new Chief Executive.
Diana has 15 years of experience in senior positions in performing arts organisations, including as Executive Director of the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra (Ontario, Canada), Vice-President, Strategic Partnerships for the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and Interim Managing Director for Toronto Dance Theatre, the legendary artistic home and collaboration hub for contemporary dance in Canada.
Geraint Martin says: “APO is delighted to have attracted someone of Diana’s calibre and experience to lead the APO in the next phase of its development. Alongside her love of orchestral music, Diana has relevant experience engaging with diverse communities and will continue to strengthen the place of the APO in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. She made an immediate impression on the selection panel with her clarity of vision and the warmth of her personality, and I know she will be a great fit for the APO whānau.
I would also like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the legacy that Barbara has created. In her 17 years as CEO, she has been central to the creation of the great taonga that the orchestra has become. Her leadership and commitment have been remarkable. We wish her well and will be ensuring that Barb and her partner Dick will remain part of the APO whānau.
Diana Weir says: "When I came to Auckland to hear the orchestra, I knew this city had something very special. I'm honoured by the opportunity to take on this leadership role, after Barbara Glaser's significant and successful tenure. I'm thrilled to step into this position, serving the city, its citizens, and APO's amazing musicians in collaboration with the board and Music Director Giordano Bellincampi. My husband and I are excited to join this community and this fabulous orchestra."
Diana will move to Auckland with her husband, Dr. Mathew Mercuri, and commence full-time in the role at the beginning of October.