Paul Christ appointed as the new General Manager at Darwin Symphony Orchestra 

Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Christ as its new General Manager. 

Paul brings more than 20 years of experience working with orchestras and performing arts organisations across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, Europe and North America. His career spans artistic leadership, operations and executive management, with a strong focus on supporting artists, strengthening organisations and building meaningful connections with communities. 

Most recently, Paul served as Artistic Director and Deputy CEO of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, where he contributed to artistic programming and organisational planning across three seasons. During this period, the orchestra experienced steady audience growth while continuing to deliver a diverse range of artistic activity. He also previously held the role of General Manager at Showbiz Christchurch, guiding the organisation through the operational challenges of COVID‑19 pandemic. 

Earlier in his career, Paul held senior operational roles with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and worked across Australia and internationally on major productions with organisations including Opera Australia, The Walt Disney Company and leading musical theatre companies. Across these roles, he has overseen complex productions, managed budgets, commissioned new works and collaborated with a wide range of stakeholders. 

DSO Chair, Claire Kilgariff welcomed the appointment, saying: 

“The Darwin Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Christ as its new General Manager. Paul is an exceptional arts leader whose depth of management experience, international perspective, and commitment to collaboration make him a wonderful and invaluable fit for the DSO, as it enters an exciting new phase. His appointment strengthens DSO at a pivotal moment, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Northern Territory. 

Paul’s arrival coincides with the appointment of Richard Mills AO as Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. Together, Paul and Richard form a powerful leadership team – pairing world class artistic vision seasoned organisational stewardship, positioning DSO for a bold and inspiring future, across the NT and Australia” 

Louise Potzeldt, who served as Acting General Manager over the past several months, reflects on her time with the organisation: 

“I would like to sincerely thank the Darwin Symphony Orchestra staff, Board, musicians and partners for making 2025 such a rewarding and memorable experience for me as Acting General Manager. It has been a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and generous group of people. I wish Paul, Richard and the entire DSO community every success in 2026, and I look forward to seeing the orchestra continue to thrive in the years ahead.”