THE Island’s police chief is to take on a new role supporting the arts as chair of the Jersey Opera House board.
Robin Smith, who was appointed chief of the States police in 2019, will support the Opera House following a major period of transition for the theatre after it reopened in October 2025 having been shut since the Covid pandemic.
Speaking about his new role, Mr Smith said: “I am delighted to be appointed as chair of Jersey Opera House and have already received a very warm welcome from the board, executive team and wider organisation. I would like to pay tribute to Laura Robertson for her leadership as interim chair during a significant period of change, as the Opera House moves into what is clearly a new and exciting phase.
“As an Island community, the Opera House plays a uniquely important role in bringing people together and enriching our shared cultural life. I am very much looking forward to working with the board, the executive team led by [Jersey Opera House chief executive] Sebastian [Warrack], and in particular the staff and volunteers whose commitment and passion are at the heart of the organisation.”
Mr Smith succeeds Ms Robertson, who has served as interim chair since 2025 following the departure of Cyril Whelan. Mr Whelan was part of a series of senior departures from the Opera House, which included the resignations of his predecessor Dave Chalk and interim director Andy Eagle in April.
She said: “It has been a privilege to serve as interim chair over the past year and to support the Jersey Opera House through a period of meaningful change. I am deeply grateful to the board and staff for their unwavering commitment and support throughout this time.
“As the organisation looks to the future, I am delighted to welcome Robin Smith as chair. Robin brings a wealth of leadership experience and a strong commitment to the Island community, and I have every confidence that Sebastian and Robin will make for a strong leadership partnership.
“I look forward to continuing to support them and Jersey Opera House build on the momentum of its successful reopening and deliver great cultural experiences for Jersey.”
The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process led by the board of directors.
Since reopening, the theatre has welcomed thousands of audience members through
its doors.
Mr Warrack added: “I am delighted that Robin Smith has been appointed as the new chair of Jersey Opera House. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Jersey and its communities, and I look forward to working with him and the rest of the board as Jersey Opera House continues to go through a period of change and transformation.
“I would also like to thank Laura Robertson for her tireless work as Interim Chair and to say how much I have appreciated her strong support and guidance during my first few months.”
