Sarah Hopwood

MANAGING DIRECTOR
GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA

Sarah’s career at Glyndebourne has spanned almost 25 years, and in that time she has played a major role in the company’s dramatic growth. Her focus throughout has been on the charity’s long-term sustainability, with a particular emphasis on employees and Members, fostering a culture of financial due diligence to support innovation and independence, and approach to the environment.

Over 20 years ago, Sarah spearheaded the initiative for Glyndebourne to invest in its intellectual property, making opera increasingly accessible to all, through cinema, international broadcast and streaming of its productions, driving significant increase in audience reach.

During her tenure, Sarah has overseen the construction of Glyndebourne’s Production Hub, its biggest capital investment for 30 years, and critical to delivering the artistic excellence, and bold production choices, for which Glyndebourne is internationally renowned.

Passionate about growing the next generation of opera lovers, Sarah’s financial stewardship has enabled exciting initiatives such as the Glyndebourne Academy, a programme of tuition, coaching and performance for gifted young singers who have faced barriers to their development. This project, alongside regular community youth operas and dedicated Performances for Schools, helps spark a lifelong interest in opera and provides an enduring legacy for Glyndebourne.

Sarah will retire from her position in October 2022 and take up a position on the Board as a Trustee.