Cultural Leadership
Where Vision Meets Collective Purpose
Leading cultural organizations with a collaborative approach rooted in artistic practice. Building resilient, sustainable institutions where strategic vision empowers collective purpose.
"Your contributions have made a great impact and made the Fund's presence felt stronger in many places where cultural expression is under pressure."
Constantijn Van Oranje-Nassau
Honorary Chair, Prince Claus Fund
"I thrive in environments that combine creativity with strategic direction."
My journey has allowed me to combine performance and artistry with visionary leadership and cultural management. I believe in shaping opera and culture not only as powerful art forms but also as drivers of social and cultural development.
From the stage to the boardroom, my work is grounded in the belief that music and singing are more than just beauty—they are meaningful vehicles for human connection and advancement.
Areas of Expertise
A holistic approach to the cultural sector, bridging the gap between artistic creation and sustainable management.
Executive Leadership
Strategic direction for international organizations like the Prince Claus Fund and The Arts and Culture Trust, focusing on sustainability and impact.
Explore LeadershipOpera Direction
Directing over 50 productions internationally, bringing stories to life with creativity while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
View PortfolioEducation & Mentoring
Preparing the next generation of singers and administrators through university lecturing, training academies, and hands-on mentorship.
Academic WorkTestimonials
Voices from collaborators, performers, and cultural leaders who have experienced the impact of this work firsthand.
"Desando's direction captured the emotional strain that the characters are forced to suffer by having to stave off the inevitable... Overall, it was a musically convincing, dramatically strong and thought-provoking piece of theatre."
Alan Neilson
Opera Critic
OperaWire
"Marcus Desando has a sharp eye for anything that can be histrionically comical, but also for the subtleties of movement, body language and human interaction."
Theatre Critic
Reviewer
IOL Entertainment
"Thanks for the energy and passion that you brought to the Fund and all the talented cultural activists and artists that have become a part of the Fund's global community under your stewardship. Your contributions have made a great impact and made the Fund's presence felt stronger in many places where cultural expression is under pressure."
Constantijn Van Oranje-Nassau
Honorary Chair
Prince Claus Fund
"You have been the best manager at the Prince Claus Fund and you deserve all the praise. I wholeheartedly endorse you as the next UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture."
Thierno M. Sow
Cultural Leader
LinkedIn Testimonial
"Your steady hand and strategic leadership skills held the fort and steered the Foundation during the highly uncertain times of the global pandemic. You have a way of sailing organisations through rough waters into safe harbour for others to enjoy a gentle breeze."
Traver Mudzonga
Cultural Professional
LinkedIn Testimonial
"Working with you will always be treasured with much respect and admiration and shared learning and experiences. Yes You Can and Yes You Will continue your leadership for all."
Gerry Raftopoulos
Cultural Collaborator
LinkedIn Testimonial
