Following a rigorous international search, Ms Travers was appointed to the role last week and will begin work from April.

Chair of the City of Melbourne’s Arts, Culture and Heritage portfolio, Councillor Rohan Leppert, said Ms Travers will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the role.

“Ms Travers has an outstanding background, with diverse and far-reaching expertise in arts and culture strategy, policy and project delivery,” Cr Leppert said.

“She brings with her a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities that accompany the General Manager role and will make an outstanding addition to the Arts Melbourne team.”

Ms Travers career has spanned the globe, with her most recent position as the Australia Council’s International Development Manager – Europe stationed in Berlin. This follows stints as the Director of the Australia Council’s IETM Collaboration Project in Brussels, as Drama and Dance Manager at the British Council in London and as Founding Director of the national dance research organisation Critical Path based in Sydney.

Other roles include owner and Director of Gallus Arts Advisory, Director of Canary Wharf Arts and Events in London and Director of the Creative Centre at London’s Roundhouse Arts Centre.

“I am looking forward to joining the team at the City of Melbourne and bringing my experience of living here and in numerous other dynamic cities of the world to bear upon my job,” Ms Travers said.