Since August 2010 Louise Jeffreys has been Director of Programming at the Barbican Centre and is responsible for the formulation, implementation and delivery of its artistic programme. Jeffreys works closely with the Centre’s Managing Director Sir Nicholas Kenyon, the Heads of Arts, and the Director of Creative Learning, to deliver the Barbican’s strategic vision as the new model of an international arts and learning centre. She also works with the Barbican’s range of partners, including its alliance for creative excellence with the Guildhall School and the LSO, and on the Centre’s work in East London and for the Olympics.

Jeffreys was previously Head of Theatre and Arts Projects and has worked for the Barbican Centre since 1999 when she was appointed to run the newly-created bite (Barbican International Theatre Events). Bite has been recognised as one of London’s most innovative artistic programmes, bringing to the UK leading figures of international theatre and dance and co-commissioning some of the most influential artists and productions of the last decade. Jeffreys has been influential in building relationships between the Barbican Centre and organisations beyond its walls – from leading international arts partners, to local organisations and community groups.

Prior to the Barbican, Jeffreys’ previous roles include Administrative Director at the Nottingham Playhouse, Head of Production at Bayerische Staatsoper, Munich, and Technical Director at the English National Opera.