Design Tasmania welcomes new CEO Jane Haley OAM

Awarded arts leader, Jane Haley OAM, has been announced as the new CEO of Design Tasmania. Ms Haley’s 40-year contribution and dedication to arts governance was recognised this year when she received a Medal of the Order of Australia.

“Design Tasmania is honoured to welcome Jane to the team as CEO. Her career of management within and advocacy for the creative sector in Australia puts her in great stead to lead the organisation in its next stage of growth as we prepare for our 50th anniversary in 2026,” said Megan Perkins, Chair of the Board of Directors of Design Tasmania.

“Jane’s depth of strategic and management expertise, incredible lived experience, national network and respected profile will play an important role in facilitating Design Tasmania’s relationships with government, industry, and friends,” Ms Perkins went on to say.

Ms Haley’s arts leadership roles include CEO of the Australia Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) (2007 – 2012), Senior Policy Advisor to Hon Mary Delahunty MP, Victoria’s Minister for the Arts, Senior Policy Officer with Arts Queensland, and General Manager of the Arts Council of Australia (ACT).

In 2014 after a 30-year absence on the ‘big island’ Ms Haley returned to her home state – Tasmania. Shortly after she took up the role of CEO of Ten Days on the Island, Tasmania’s international arts festival (2015 – 2021).

“Design Tasmania holds a significant and special place in our island’s arts and cultural treasury. I am privileged and delighted as the new CEO to contribute to the organisation’s important role in championing and supporting designers and design in Tasmania,” said Jane.

As the new CEO of Design Tasmania, Ms Haley will head up a great team including Artistic Director, Michelle Boyde, whose programming has activated the galleries over the last 12 months with exhibitions such as the inaugural showcase of Tasmania Makes craftsmanship in design and Silk Stockings at the Babel Island Store, the first dedicated exhibition featuring Tasmanian First Nations fashion and textile design.