Jersey Opera House has appointed Robin Smith as Chair of its Board, as the historic venue enters a new chapter following its reopening and renewed commitment to enriching Jersey’s cultural life.
Robin brings experience in leadership, governance and public service to the role. As Chief Officer of States of Jersey Police, he has led large and complex organisations, delivered significant transformation and developed strong relationships across the Island’s communities. His deep understanding of Jersey, combined with his strategic leadership experience, will support Jersey Opera House as it strengthens its role as one of the Island’s most treasured cultural institutions.
Robin succeeds Laura Robertson, who has served as Interim Chair since 2025 and has provided leadership and continuity during a defining period for the organisation, including the successful reopening of the Opera House and the appointment of Chief Executive Officer Sebastian Warrack.
Laura Robertson, Interim Chair of Jersey Opera House, said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Interim Chair over the past year and to support the Jersey Opera House through a period of meaningful change. I am deeply grateful to the Board and staff for their unwavering commitment and support throughout this time.
“As the organisation looks to the future, I am delighted to welcome Robin Smith as Chair. Robin brings a wealth of leadership experience and a strong commitment to the Island community, and I have every confidence that Sebastian and Robin will make for a strong leadership partnership.”
The appointment follows a recruitment process led by the Board of Directors and overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission and reflects the organisation’s commitment to strong governance, long term resilience and continued ambition for Jersey Opera House’s future.
Since reopening, Jersey Opera House has welcomed thousands of audience members through its doors, re-establishing itself as a vibrant home for theatre, comedy, dance, music, family entertainment and community activity. Alongside its artistic ambitions, the organisation remains focused on broadening access, growing audiences, building financial resilience and deepening its connection with Jersey and its communities.
Sebastian Warrack, Chief Executive Officer of Jersey Opera House, said: “I am delighted that Robin Smith has been appointed as the new Chair of Jersey Opera House. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Jersey and its communities, and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the Board as Jersey Opera House continues to go through a period of change and transformation.”
Robin said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Chair of Jersey Opera House and have already received a very warm welcome from the Board, executive team and wider organisation. I would like to pay tribute to Laura Robertson for her leadership as Interim Chair during a significant period of change, as the Opera House moves into what is clearly a new and exciting phase.
“As an Island community, the Opera House plays a uniquely important role in bringing people together and enriching our shared cultural life. I am very much looking forward to working with the Board, the executive team led by Sebastian, and in particular the staff and volunteers whose commitment and passion are at the heart of the organisation.
“As a registered charity and a cornerstone of Jersey’s cultural landscape, Jersey Opera House plays a vital role in bringing people together through shared experiences, championing local creativity and welcoming world class performances to the Island.”
