In ever-changing workplaces, having the support of an experienced mentor like Mary Jo Capps helps highlight leadership opportunities, clarify directions and provide personal examination of what you can achieve.

Senior Manager | Major Collecting Institution

I am an executive recruiter, mentor and strategic consultant, with deep experience in the for-purpose sector at senior leadership levels.

The range of my clients is international, with a primary focus on the Australian arts world. In addition to working with some of the most renowned arts organisations in Australasia both large and small, I have also frequently consulted to government in areas of cultural feasibility studies, business development and grant application assessments.

My career has been dedicated to the for-purpose sector, where I have successfully played a range of roles from CEO, to Chair, to consultant.

I was CEO of Musica Viva Australia (1999-2018), and from 1982-1999 undertook various senior leadership roles at the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, including Deputy MD and Director of Development, while maintaining a consultancy to a variety of arts organisations including the Museum of Contemporary Art, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Company B Belvoir and NIDA.

I am continuously inspired by the ambition, agility and vision of the people and organisations with whom I work.

My leadership role has been recognised with the inaugural Creative Partnerships Australia Arts Leadership Award (2016), an honorary PhD from University of Melbourne (2017) and a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to business and arts (2018).