National Arts Centre Appoints Annabelle Cloutier as New CEO

The National Arts Centre (NAC) has appointed Annabelle Cloutier as its new president and chief executive officer, effective immediately. The NAC’s board of trustees made the announcement following the retirement of Christopher Deacon on December 3, 2025. Cloutier, who previously served as the NAC’s executive director of strategy and communications, will lead the organization during a five-year term.

Cloutier brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having worked closely with Deacon. He praised her passion for the arts, stating she “lives and breathes the arts of the stage.” Her leadership was instrumental in implementing a digital transformation at the NAC during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the organization adapted and thrived in a challenging environment. She also played a crucial role in the NAC’s 50th anniversary celebrations and the launch of the Indigenous Theatre in 2019.

Experience and Vision

In addition to her accomplishments at the NAC, Cloutier has been involved in significant cultural events, including the showcases at Expo 2020 Dubai and Expo 2025 Osaka, as well as an orchestra tour of Korea and Japan. The NAC board highlighted her exceptional qualities during a global executive search, noting that she brings “vision, energy and imagination” to one of Canada’s most respected cultural institutions.

Cloutier expressed her commitment to the arts, stating, “I believe deeply in the fundamental role of the arts in our society.” She outlined her immediate priorities, which include engaging with artists and arts leaders across Canada to strengthen connections with national audiences and to collaborate with the dedicated NAC team.

Background and Education

Originally from Quebec’s Eastern Townships, the 52-year-old Cloutier is recognized as the first francophone woman to lead the Ottawa-based organization, which is known for its diverse programming in orchestra, dance, theatre, popular music, and variety shows. Prior to her tenure at the NAC, she served as a spokesperson for three Governors General during a nine-year period at Rideau Hall, where she managed key aspects of state visits, royal tours, and national honours ceremonies.

Cloutier’s background also includes advocacy work for arts and culture within francophone minority communities and the film and television sector. She is a trained lawyer, studied piano and violin in her youth, completed graduate studies in communications, and holds a certificate in public leadership from the Harvard Kennedy School.

The NAC, a renowned cultural institution in Canada, is poised for a new chapter under Cloutier’s leadership. With her extensive experience and passion for the arts, she is expected to drive the NAC forward in its mission to present, create, produce, and co-produce exceptional artistic programming.