Gretchen La Roche currently serves as tumu whakarae (chief executive) of Creative New Zealand – Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa, the national arts development agency. An experienced arts leader and trained musician, this is her third role with the organization, following earlier positions as program adviser and senior manager, arts development services. After several roles based in Te Wai Pounamu (South Island) of Aotearoa New Zealand, she is now based in Tamaki Makaurau Auckland. She was also an inaugural member of Te Ropu Mana Toi – an advisory group of arts sector leaders informing Creative New Zealand’s advocacy work. Gretchen’s previous leadership roles include executive director of The Court Theatre in Christchurch, where she oversaw the development and opening of its rebuilt theatre, chief executive of Chamber Music New Zealand, and chief executive officer of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, after joining the orchestra as artistic director.