The Board of Scottish Opera has announced the appointment of Alex Reedijk as General Director.

Alex Reedijk will take up post in February 2006 and replaces Interim General Director Richard Jarman. Mr Reedijk is currently General Director of New Zealand Opera and has extensive experience of the international opera and arts scene.

William Taylor, QC, Chairman of Scottish Opera said: "We are delighted to welcome Alex at this crucial time. I am convinced that he will provide strong leadership for Scottish Opera and will play a key role in helping to strengthen the Company. Alex's experience on the international arts scene - and within Scotland - will be an enormous asset to the Company and we look forward to working with him to help shape the future of Scottish Opera."

Alex Reedijk said: "I am thrilled to have been offered this opportunity to take up this vital role within Scotland's national opera company. I am confident that I can provide the experience, passion and hard work to help deliver Scottish Opera's future plans. I am inspired by the deep potential inherent in the Company and have a strong desire to help deliver the best in opera for the people of Scotland. I look forward to working closely with our audience and the fine team at Scottish Opera, with the Scottish Arts Council, the Culture Minister - Patricia Ferguson MSP, and with all our many patient stakeholders in realising a vision for a strong and successful opera company in Scotland."