Boston Ballet Appoints New Executive Director
The company has named Matthew Bird to serve as the new executive director beginning in early 2027.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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Boston Ballet has appointed Matthew Bird as its next executive director, filling the position following the upcoming departure of Ming Min Hui. Bird will transition to the leadership role at the start of January 2027.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a significant leadership transition for one of Boston's premier cultural institutions. The organization finalized the selection following an extensive board-led process to identify its next administrator.
Matthew Bird joins the organization after serving as the chief development officer of The Metropolitan Opera. He is a Harvard University graduate who previously held a development leadership role at the New York City Ballet.
The players
Matthew Bird
He is an experienced arts administrator currently serving as the chief development officer at The Metropolitan Opera.
Ming Min Hui
She is the outgoing executive director who has led the Boston Ballet's administrative operations.
Boston Ballet
It is a professional ballet company based in Boston known for its diverse repertoire and commitment to dance education.
The details
Matthew Bird, who grew up in Wayland, will take over for current executive director Ming Min Hui, who is set to step down at the end of the year. The Boston Ballet board orchestrated the transition to ensure continuity as the company enters the new year.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Boston Ballet announced the appointment of the new executive director.
End of 2026: Ming Min Hui will conclude her term as executive director.
January 2027: Matthew Bird is scheduled to begin his tenure in the leadership role.
Market Landscape
The transition brings leadership experience from major national cultural institutions like The Metropolitan Opera to the local arts sector. This move signals a strategic emphasis on strengthening development and operational sustainability in an competitive regional arts market.
This leadership change will not affect current season ticket holders or scheduled performance programming. Patrons should expect consistent operations as the organization completes its executive transition at the start of next year.
The takeaway
The selection of a leader with deep roots in both local education and national ballet management suggests a period of stability for the organization. Audiences and stakeholders can anticipate a focus on development as the company welcomes its new director in 2027.
Further reading
For more updates on professional changes in the region, visit the Boston People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Boston Globe.
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