Ōtautahi Christchurch-based arts leader Rachel Jefferies has been appointed Executive Director of SCAPE Public Art, Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading producer of contemporary public art.
She takes over from Richard Aindow, who started his new role as Chief Executive of The Court Theatre earlier this week.
SCAPE Chair Graham Dockrill said the Board undertook a rigorous recruitment process, with the generous support of Brannigans, to identify the right candidate from a strong field of applicants.
“Rachel brings a rare combination of strategic insight and hands-on experience across business development, event production, philanthropy, and fundraising consultancy,” says Mr Dockrill. “Her deep understanding of the arts ecosystem and her commitment to community engagement made her a standout choice.”
Rachel Jefferies says she was drawn to the role by SCAPE’s unique position in the cultural landscape:
“SCAPE’s work sits at the intersection of creativity, community, and place. I’m honoured to lead an organisation that not only commissions bold, contemporary public art but also fosters meaningful connections between artists and audiences across Ōtautahi and beyond.”
Born and raised in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Rachel’s career has spanned Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland before she returned to live in Ōhinehou Lyttelton in 2021. A classically trained percussionist, she began her professional life as a performer before moving into arts management. Her previous roles include senior positions with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and the Auckland Philharmonia.
She currently serves on the boards of the Tim Bray Theatre Company (a specialist children’s theatre in Auckland) and Te Ūaka The Lyttelton Museum. Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours (Victoria University of Wellington), a Diploma in Publishing (Whitireia Polytechnic), and an MBA (The University of Auckland).
Rachel will commence her role with SCAPE on Friday 27 June 2025.