The National Arts Centre (NAC) has announced the appointment of Annabelle Cloutier as the new president and CEO, making her the first francophone woman to hold these positions. Cloutier has been an integral part of the NAC since 2018, serving as the executive strategy and communications director as well as the corporate secretary to the board. During her tenure, she played a key role in commemorating the centre’s 50th anniversary and the establishment of its Indigenous theatre initiative.
Prior to her time at the NAC, Cloutier held positions in the governor general’s office and at various francophone cultural organizations, including the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française. The former president and CEO, Christopher Deacon, officially retired the previous week.
In response to Cloutier’s appointment, Guy Pratte, chair of the NAC board of trustees and head of the selection committee, expressed confidence in her leadership, stating, “Annabelle embodies the qualities essential for a leader in the arts sector in Canada, bringing forth vision, dynamism, and creativity to one of our nation’s most esteemed cultural institutions.”
In her statement following the announcement, Cloutier emphasized her commitment to engaging with artists and arts leaders nationwide, fostering connections with audiences on a national scale, and working collaboratively with the dedicated NAC team. She pledged to uphold the vitality and significance of the performing arts as a fundamental aspect of Canadian heritage and identity.
The NAC’s decision to appoint Cloutier reflects a strategic move to further strengthen and advance the institution under her leadership.