Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has announced major changes to its management tiers, beginning with the news that Richard Wigley would take on the CEO role, effective immediately. Wigley was already serving as Interim CEO of the embattled organisation after the departure of Sophie Galaise in late August. The statement also announced the retirement of David Li after 12 years as Director and Chair in the first quarter of 2025. With him goes Co-Deputy Chair Margaret Jackson, Co-Deputy Chair Diane Jameson and Director Andrew Dudgeon. They are replaced by Edgar Myer (Chair-elect), Martin Foley and Farrel Meltzer.

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s 2023 Opening Gala, Zenith of Life. Photo © Laura Manariti

MSO has also announced that, due to delays arising from legal action taken against it by pianist Jayson Gillham, KPMG will now conduct the independent review into the orchestra’s processes and culture instead of former Federal Arts Minister Peter Garrett. 

Opera Australia will undergo a similar review into its management and decision-making processes in the wake of the resignation of its Artistic Director Jo Davies earlier this year. Conducted by Creative Australia, it will be helmed by Gabrielle Trainor, who...