Experienced arts executive Elaine Chia has been announced as CEO of a new cultural precinct being built in Melbourne, on the site of the former Richmond Power Station in the city’s south-east.

The site is to be transformed into a new creative, civic and garden space, spanning over one hectare just back from the Yarra. It is being bankrolled by Naomi Milgrom, the arts philanthropist whose company owns women’s clothing retailers including Sportsgirl and Sussan.

Elaine Chia

Chia has had a long career in arts administration both in Australia and overseas. Her most recent role was as Executive Director of the Adelaide Festival, and before that she spent four years as the CEO of City Recital Hall, Sydney and five years at the Australia Council for the Arts.

“I am thrilled to have been asked to take on a key role in this exciting project, adding to the significant portfolio of cultural initiatives that Naomi has commissioned and supported such as MPavilion and Living Cities, and countless others through the Naomi Milgrom Foundation,” Ms Chia said. “I look forward to returning to Melbourne and contributing to the cultural life of the...