The Lyric Opera of Chicago has revealed its new General Director, President, and CEO.

Sylvia Neil, Chair, and the Board of Directors of the Lyric Opera of Chicago have announced that John Mangum will take on the role of the company’s fifth General Director, President, and CEO.

Mangum will begin his tenure in the Fall of 2024, with the exact start date to be confirmed. He will succeed Anthony Freud, who is retiring after 13 years in the position.

In an official press release, Mangum expressed his passion for classical music and opera, which began in high school and has guided both his personal and professional life. "Lyric has consistently delivered opera at the highest international standards, and I am eager to connect this exceptional artistry with audiences in Chicago and beyond. My goal as a cultural leader is to elevate and support talented artists, exploring ways to showcase their work to as many people as possible. I am thrilled to collaborate with Lyric’s Music Director Enrique Mazzola and the talented artists, artisans, and staff at Lyric. I look forward to highlighting the positive and profound impact of opera for Chicago and its communities."

Throughout his career, Mangum has held prominent artistic and executive roles with the Houston Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, New York Philharmonic, and Los Angeles Philharmonic, including its renowned Hollywood Bowl.

He has served as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Symphony, Director of Artistic Planning at the San Francisco Symphony, and Artistic Administrator of the New York Philharmonic. Additionally, he has held various positions over an eight-year period with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Hollywood Bowl.