Paolo Petrocelli has been featured in an interview by Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, where he reflects on leadership, cultural impact and global responsibility. His insights draw on experiences at both the Oxford Executive Leadership Programme and the Oxford Cultural Leaders initiative.

Through these advanced learning journeys, Paolo Petrocelli has further developed a leadership approach rooted in adaptability, ethical decision-making, and cultural innovation. He explores how the performing arts can serve as a platform to bridge communities, foster inclusion, and inspire social transformation.
This builds on insights he previously shared during the American Express Leadership Academy in London, reinforcing the importance of purpose-driven leadership in the cultural sector.

As Head of Dubai Opera, Petrocelli applies these principles daily, curating a dynamic and inclusive programme that speaks to audiences across generations and cultures. His work focuses on building bridges across borders and championing artistic diversity in the UAE and beyond.

In the interview, Paolo Petrocelli discusses how his Oxford experience has shaped his global cultural vision and elevated his commitment to ethical leadership in the arts. He emphasises that the role of a cultural leader today is not only to inspire, but also to take responsibility for positive societal change.

For Paolo Petrocelli Oxford Saïd has become much more than an academic institution: it’s a compass for action, helping him align personal purpose with public impact in every project he leads.

As part of a growing international community of Oxford-trained leaders, Paolo Petrocelli continues to advocate for the integration of culture, diplomacy, and education in global leadership. His participation in these programmes reflects a lifelong commitment to learning and impact. For Petrocelli, building cultural bridges is not just a professional mission, but a personal responsibility in shaping a more inclusive, empathetic world.

You can read the full interview published by Oxford Saïd Business School here.