This week marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Roundhouse as Jenny Mollica officially takes up the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Jenny joins the Roundhouse following a distinguished career spanning more than two decades across the arts, culture and creative industries, most recently serving as CEO of English National Opera (ENO) and the London Coliseum. She succeeds Marcus Davey CBE, who has stepped down after 27 years leading the organisation.
A respected cultural leader with a track record of driving artistic innovation, organisational growth and social impact, Jenny brings a deep commitment to expanding access to creativity and championing the next generation of artists and young people.
Prior to becoming CEO of ENO, Jenny served as Director of Strategy and Engagement, leading the organisation’s strategic planning, business development and learning and participation work. She played a pivotal role in expanding ENO’s national reach, including the development of its partnership with Greater Manchester and the growth of ENO Engage, which now reaches more than 100,000 people annually through creative programmes in schools, hospitals, community spaces and online.
Before joining ENO, Jenny spent more than a decade at the Barbican and Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where she was Director of Creative Learning and helped develop pioneering cross-arts programmes spanning music, theatre, dance, visual arts, literature and film.
Jenny joins the Roundhouse at a significant moment in its history. This year, the organisation celebrated 20 years since reopening as a youth arts charity, marking two decades of supporting more than 100,000 young people through creative opportunities, skills development and pathways into the creative industries.
Jenny Mollica, Chief Executive of the Roundhouse, said: “I am incredibly proud to be joining the Roundhouse and to begin working alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I have long admired the organisation’s unique ability to combine artistic excellence with meaningful opportunities for young people, creating a place where creativity, innovation and social impact come together.
“At a time when so many young people face barriers to connection, confidence and creative opportunity, the Roundhouse’s mission feels more important than ever. I am excited to build on the extraordinary foundations that have been created here by Marcus Davey, working with our staff, artists, partners, supporters and young people as we write the next chapter together.”
Simon Turner, Chair of the Roundhouse, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jenny to the Roundhouse. Her experience, values and commitment to young people make her the ideal person to build on our strong foundations and help shape the future of the organisation.
“We look forward to working together as we continue to grow our artistic programme, deepen our impact and create even more opportunities for young people to thrive through creativity.”
Looking ahead, Jenny will lead the Roundhouse, as it continues to expand its impact through ambitious, world-leading youth arts programmes, amplifying the work housed in Roundhouse Works, the organisation’s landmark creative centre, and nurturing the next generation of artists and innovators. Under Jenny’s expert guidance, the Roundhouse will build on the success of the Three Sixty Festival, extending its reach to engage thousands of young people each year, while remaining committed to championing emerging talent through bold new projects and programmes, including an exciting new Commission and innovative creative collaborations.
Welcome, Jenny.
Image credit: Louise Haywood-Schiefer