ARTRAGE is delighted to announce the appointment of Katie Henebery as its new Chief Executive Officer.
An accomplished entrepreneurial leader with more than 10 years’ experience across the arts, Katie will commence in the role on January 27, 2027.
Commercially astute and a committed advocate for artists, she brings experience in philanthropy, partnerships and organisational development. As Executive Director and Co-CEO of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, she helped secure significant new partnerships and funding, supported the launch and expansion of the early childhood program Puppet Playtime, and played a key role in advancing the company’s $5.3 million redevelopment at Claremont Showground. She also helped shape the organisation’s next chapter through strategic leadership appointments.
The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process and marks an exciting new chapter for ARTRAGE as the organisation continues to deliver some of Western Australia’s most significant cultural experiences, including FRINGE WORLD Festival and Rooftop Movies.
ARTRAGE Board Chair Noel Whitehead said Katie’s experience, leadership and vision made her an outstanding choice to lead the organisation.
“We welcome Katie as ARTRAGE’s new Chief Executive Officer. She brings an impressive combination of strategic leadership, commercial insight and a genuine passion for arts and culture.”
“Katie joins ARTRAGE at an important point in its evolution. The Board is confident she will build on the organisation’s strong foundations while working closely with our team, artists, partners and audiences to shape an ambitious and sustainable future.”
Katie said she is honoured to have the opportunity to lead ARTRAGE and contribute to the organisation’s next chapter.
“ARTRAGE is such an integral part of Western Australia's cultural landscape and contributes so much to the vibrancy of our city. FRINGEWORLD is a rite of passage for so many artists and audience members alike, and is a defining part of the quintessential Perth summer.
“I am so looking forward becoming a part of this and working with the Board, team and wider creative community.
“I am excited to build upon ARTRAGE's achievements and look forward to transforming spaces around our city and creating bold and memorable experiences that all West Australians can enjoy and be proud of."
Katie succeeds Jo Thomas, who earlier this year made the considered decision to step back from her joint CEO / Creative Director responsibilities to focus on delivering FRINGE WORLD Festival 2027’s creative vision.
The Board also acknowledged and thanked Acting CEO Tiffany Creasey and the Executive Leadership Team, for their exceptional leadership, dedication and professionalism throughout this transition, ensuring the organisation has continued to operate seamlessly and successfully during the search for a new CEO.
ARTRAGE looks forward to working with Katie to continue building the organisation’s strong legacy while shaping an exciting, inclusive and sustainable future for audiences across the width and breadth of Western Australia.
