The Welsh National Opera has named Professor Medwin Hughes CBE DL to the position of Chair of the Board of Directors.

Hughes takes over for Yvette Vaughan Jones, whose term ends in Autumn 2025.

Hughes is a former Vice Chancellor of University of Wales Trinity St David and Vice Chancellor of the University of Wales who has served as Deputy Chair for the Welsh Language Board and on several advisory committees of the Welsh government. He joined the Welsh National Opera Board in July 2022 and was appointed to the position of Senior Independent Director in January 2024.

“It is a great privilege to be appointed WNO Chair at such an exciting and transformational time for the Company, and I’m grateful to my fellow trustees for their confidence in my leadership. I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to Yvette Vaughan Jones for her remarkable contribution during her tenure,” Hughes said, per an official press release issued by the Welsh National Opera. “We should take immense pride in WNO’s outstanding international reputation. This is a Company that consistently excels and demonstrates the best of our nation’s rich artistic tradition. As we celebrate 80 years of service, I’m delighted to be working with our new General Directors as they shape an inspiring future for the Company.”

Jones is the first woman in the company’s history to hold the role of Chair of the Board of Directors; she joined the Board in October 2019.

“I am delighted that Medwin Hughes has agreed to take on the role of Chair of this wonderful Company. Medwin’s wisdom, experience and vast networks of peers and friends will provide the best kind of leadership,” Jones added.

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