Oregon Ballet Theatre has selected Shane Jewell as Executive Director, following an executive search process led by Arts Consulting Group (ACG). He will begin his tenure on January 9, 2023.
Shane Jewell is an expert in performing arts administration with over 20 years of experience and proven success in achieving organizational goals and objectives. Most recently, Jewell served as General Manager for Gibney Company, a new contemporary dance establishment based in New York City. Jewell led the company through a dynamic period of transformation, developing infrastructure necessary for domestic and international touring, building strategic partnerships, and advancing entrepreneurial initiatives. Prior to Gibney Company, Jewell served as Executive Director at Orlando Ballet, where he balanced a budget of $6.9 million, led fundraising efforts, and oversaw construction of a new 38,000 square foot facility working closely with contractors and the architect throughout the process.
Previously, Jewell held positions as Executive Director of Oklahoma City Ballet and Executive Director of the OKM Music Festival (formerly known as the OK Mozart International Festival). A strong proponent of community work, Jewell has served as a member of Bartlesville Rotary, Oklahoma City Rotary, Leadership Oklahoma City, and Leadership Orlando. His current and former affiliations also include the Price Tower Advisory Council, Downtown Bartlesville Inc. Advisory Board, Oklahoma Contemporary Art Museum Education Committee, the Oklahoma Presenters Network, and Dance/USA. He holds a bachelor of arts degree in English from the Oklahoma State University.
In making the announcement, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Oregon Ballet Theatre Cate Sweeney said, “These are exciting times as our artform evolves to meet the needs of our community and serves new audiences. While we are proud of the progress Oregon Ballet Theatre has made, there remains a lot of work ahead. After a thorough search led by ACG, Shane emerged as the clear leader to usher Oregon Ballet Theatre’s next chapter.”
“It is an absolute honor to join the incredible team at Oregon Ballet Theatre during such a momentous time in the company’s trajectory,” said Jewell. “I am so excited to immerse in the community and culture of Portland and to work diligently with the dedicated staff and board to help build upon the incredible history here while our eyes are firmly fixed on the future.”
“It was a great privilege to work with the search committee, board, staff, and dancers of the Oregon Ballet Theatre,” said ACG Vice President Geoff Chang. “Congratulations to Shane Jewell on his appointment as Executive Director. Shane is a charismatic, collaborative, and innovative professional that will be an exemplary leader for the ballet company. His expertise, talent, and passion for bringing together diverse voices and perspectives will propel the organization into a period of growth, vitality, and lasting success.”
November 2022