Jo Hemmant by Mark Senior

Jo Hemmant has worked at Hackney Empire for 12 years

Photo: Mark Senior

Changing Faces

Hackney Empire executive director to step down

Arts Professional
2 min read

The CEO and executive director of Hackney Empire theatre, JO HEMMANT, will leave the organisation next year, after over a decade with the venue.

Hemmant joined Hackney Empire as director of operations in 2012, following roles as producer on London 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad, before taking up her current role in 2018.

Her previous work includes serving as general manager at Improbable Theatre and a 12-year stint as theatre officer at Arts Council England.

Hackney Empire chair Sir WILLIAM ATKINSON said: “The trustees wish to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contribution that Jo and her team have made to Hackney Empire and its multifaceted community during her distinguished tenure.

“Under her inspired leadership Hackney Empire has risen like a phoenix from the ashes to become one of the best loved and well appreciated theatres in London.

“Jo’s intellect, determination and capacity for hard work, coupled with her firm belief that Hackney Empire should always strive to go beyond its previous best, has helped to transform the fortunes of our beloved theatre. Jo leaves an organisation that is well placed to face the future.

“We will forever be in her debt.”

Hemmant added, “Once touched by Hackney Empire and the people here, your life will be transformed for the good. I don’t think there is anywhere better or quite like it.”