Central City Opera has appointed Scott Finlay to the role of President and CEO.

He replaces former CEO and President Pamela Pantos, whose tenure lasted all of 17 months.

Finlay is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he graduated in business administration and then earned a master’s in vocal performance. He then did doctoral work at the University of Colorado in vocal performance and pedagogy. He held a senior staff position with the company and had been called upon to take over as Chief External Affairs Officer following the company’s decision to let go of Pantos.

Per an official press statement, Finlay’s mandate will be based around four guiding principals (presented as originally written):

1. Financial sustainability involving innovative approaches for revenue generation by the leverage of current assets and endowment fund development.
2. Labor relations with a commitment to transparency, collaboration, and fair compensation for artists, along with proactive social media strategies to address public concerns constructively.
3. Innovation and audience development based on the reimagining of CCO’s artistic vision while continuing to support the world-class quality for which the organization is famous.  In addition, expanding collaborations, and ensuring accessibility to attract a wider and younger audience.
4. Expanded community engagement and educational outreach initiatives that foster stronger connections by showcasing artistic creations and highlighting the contemporary significance and societal relevance of opera for 21st-century audiences.

“I am deeply honored to assume the position of President & CEO at Central City Opera,” said Finlay. “This institution’s legacy is unparalleled, and I am committed to honoring its past while embracing the necessary changes to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future. I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the opportunity to lead CCO into a new era.”

“After an unanimous vote, we are thrilled to announce Scott Finlay as the new President and CEO of CCO,” added Heather Miller, CCO Board co-chair. “His dynamic leadership and tenure with the company make him the perfect fit for us. He brings a deep understanding of the organization from both the artistic and administrative sides. We are looking forward to seeing Scott, and the company flourish.”

The company also noted in the press statement that it would immediately commence a search for a new Artistic Director.