Hackney Empire has announced that Jo Hemmant will be stepping down as Executive Director and CEO at the end of 2026, after 12 years of dedicated service. Jo Hemmant, who joined Hackney Empire in 2012, will remain in her role until the end of the year, continuing to lead the organisation and champion its variety programme, including producing the theatre’s legendary pantomime.
As Hackney Empire approaches its 125th anniversary in 2026, the board is recruiting for the next creative leader to build on Jo’s remarkable work. Details of the recruitment process will be released in early May.
Jo Hemmant first joined Hackney Empire following her role as producer on London 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad. She became Executive Director in 2018 alongside Yamin Choudury as Artistic Director. During the first 18 months of their tenure, Yamin and Jo developed youth engagement by over 12%, expanding the free year-round programme of engagement, Creative Futures, and working with over 4,000 young people. They also saw over 84% of new bookers come through the doors. The leadership team skilfully steered the ship during the pandemic, reopening the doors in 2021 and celebrating the venue’s 120th anniversary.
Since then, Hackney Empire has gone from strength to strength, hosting performances by The Rolling Stones, The Pogues, Gina Yashere, Mac DeMarco, Alan Carr, Maggie Rogers, James Acaster, Millie Bobby Brown, and many more. This is alongside a year-round programme of shows and Creative Futures projects for young people that celebrate all Hackney’s communities.
Sir William Atkinson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said, “The trustees wish to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contribution that Jo and her team have made to Hackney Empire and its multifaceted community during her distinguished tenure. Under her inspired leadership, Hackney Empire has risen like a phoenix from the ashes to become one of the best-loved and well-appreciated theatres in London. Jo’s intellect, determination, and capacity for hard work, coupled with her firm belief that Hackney Empire should always strive to go beyond its previous best, has helped to transform the fortunes of our beloved theatre. Jo leaves an organisation that is well placed to face the future. We will forever be in her debt.”
Jo Hemmant said, “Once touched by Hackney Empire and the people here, your life will be transformed for the good. I don’t think there is anywhere better or quite like it.”
More information can be found here.
