WAM hires former Sydney Opera House CFO, Natasha Collier, as new CEO

West Australian Music (WAM) has revealed who will be taking the reins as CEO, announcing the appointment of former Sydney Opera House chief financial officer, Natasha Collier.

WAM lost its CEO, Mike Harris, back in February, when he left to take up the post of general manager at the Darwin Entertainment Centre.

In recent months, Livia Carrè has been acting as WAM’s CEO.

WAM’s new appointee, Collier, was CFO of the Sydney Opera House between 2014 and 2017. Prior to that, she held the same position for BDO Presents, the company which staged the Big Day Out festival. More recently, she’s worked for the NSW Government’s Local Land Services as chief financial officer, and then general manager.

WAM’s president, Al Taylor, said the organisation is delighted to confirm such a high-calibre candidate for the role.

“Natasha is very well regarded for her considerable contribution to the arts sector, having led some of the country’s most successful arts organisations including Sydney Opera House and the iconic and long-running Big Day Out,” Taylor said.

Taylor also noted Collier is joining at an exciting time of growth and revitalisation for WAM, and said there would be a new era under her stewardship.

“She is a valuable advocate for the industry and a champion for innovation and transformation for organisational sustainability.” Taylor added. “Following the uncertainty and challenges of the last 12 to 18 months, her insight, fresh thinking and strong advocacy will be of great benefit to our sector as it continues its recovery.”

Collier said the state of WA had always punched above its weight when it comes to home-grown contemporary music talent.

“I’m privileged and thrilled to be joining WA’s peak music body and to champion the state’s incredible array of talented artists and industry players.”

Carrè, who has been general manager at the organisation since 2016, added that there’s a buzz around the office ahead of Collier starting tomorrow, Thursday, July 1.

“We are very confident now that with Natasha’s skills, strategic focus and proven track record, WAM is ready for an exciting next phase and a thriving future ahead.”

Collier has a five-year contract.