SOLT and TMA Head Richard Pulford to Retire; Search On for Replacement

The Society of London Theatre and the Theatrical Management Association are seeking a new joint Chief Executive. They have appointed executive search firm Odgers to assist in the appointment process.

The current Chief Executive, Richard Pulford, has announced his intention to retire from the role around the end of the year. He was appointed in 2001 in succession to Rupert Rhymes. Richard will continue to work as an arts consultant on selected projects.

Nica Burns, President of the Society of London Theatre, said:
"When Richard first accepted the role of Chief Executive, we all knew how lucky we were. He has done a fantastic job. I know he will continue to be an active contributor to the arts and I look forward to working with him in the future. He will be a hard act to follow."
Derek Nicholls, President of the Theatrical Management Association, said:
"During my six years as TMA President, I have enjoyed working with Richard, whose long experience, wisdom and shrewdness - as well as his quiet sense of humour - have been invaluable. On behalf of all of the membership of TMA, I hope that we may still have the pleasure of his company at TMA events for years to come."

Richard Pulford said:

"By the end of 2010 I will have been here for nine very happy years. It's been a great experience, working with genuinely inspirational members and an outstanding staff. The year-end will be some six months after the election of a new TMA President and some six months before the election of a new SOLT President. To leave at that point will allow me time to induct the former and will allow my successor time to get his or her feet under the table before inducting the latter. "