Artrage CEO and Creative Director Jo Thomas has announced she’ll step down from her role of CEO and take on a new part-time role as the organisation’s Creative Director.
This change reflects a considered step back from full-time CEO responsibilities due to family circumstances and enables Thomas to take on a more focused part-time role shaping the organisation’s creative direction and strategy and future artistic development.
Since commencing her tenure in 2023, Thomas has played a pivotal role in guiding the organisation beyond the post-COVID period and through cost-of-living pressures, while returning Artrage to being an organisation with a year-round calendar of events.
In addition to presenting three Fringe World festivals and Rooftop Movies seasons, key achievements include the delivery of the winter arts festival RE//Perth, the establishment of the philanthropic Next Act Fund and the WA Stars Initiative to support local artists.
“After an incredible three years as Artrage CEO and Creative Director, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and have genuinely loved my time in the role,” Thomas said. “I’m excited to now transition into the role of Creative Director, which will allow me to focus on artistic strategy and program development, deliver meaningful cultural outcomes, and continue creating exceptional audience experiences. The Art Rage will continue!”
Artrage Board Chair Noel Whitehead said “The Board acknowledges the exceptional contribution Jo has made during a transformative period for the organisation and is delighted that she will continue to shape ARTRAGE’s creative future in a part-time capacity as Creative Director. This leadership evolution reflects a considered step forward, strengthening both our creative and operational focus, and positions Artrage for continued success.”
“During Jo’s tenure, Artrage has experienced significant growth and impact, strengthening its reputation as a leading cultural organisation and expanding its artistic reach and influence. This next chapter builds on that momentum, with a continued commitment to bold, innovative programming and meaningful cultural engagement,” Whitehead said.
This leadership evolution comes at a pivotal moment, as the organisation recently secured significant multi-year State government funding to expand its impact even further to audiences across the width and breadth of Western Australia.
A new CEO will be appointed to lead the organisation in a full-time capacity. The CEO will work in close partnership with the Creative Director to ensure ARTRAGE’s creative ambitions are supported by strong organisational leadership. The Artrage Board has commenced a search for the new CEO this week.
