YORK Theatre Royal's new executive director is to be Tom Bird, who has been executive producer at Shakespeare’s Globe theatre in London for the past five years.

Liz Wilson stepped down as Chief Executive in June, having overseen the major redevelopment of the theatre and Simon Glinn, a specialist in arts business continuity, is acting as Interim Executive Director until Mr Bird takes up his post in December.

Mr Bird was director of the Globe to Globe Festival for the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, for which he won the Critics’ Circle Special Award with Dominic Dromgoole in 2013.

Under his management, the touring programme at Shakespeare’s Globe won the Renee Stepham Award for Best Presentation of Touring Theatre at the UK Theatre Awards 2014 and the International Award at The Stage Awards 2015. That touring programme included Henry VI, a co-production with York Theatre Royal, that played on the battlefield sites mentioned in the plays.

He said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining York Theatre Royal. The theatre is inspirational for the way it engages its community and I look forward to continuing and developing that work, while also making an impact nationally and internationally.

“I'm hugely excited about working with the Board and all the staff at York Theatre Royal, ensuring the organisation thrives artistically and commercially, and remains the beating heart of York's cultural offering. York and Yorkshire have a rich and vital theatrical tradition, and it's an honour to be a part of that."

The appointment has been made by York Theatre Royal’s Board of Trustees. Chair of the Board, Ann Green said: “The board is delighted that we have been able to attract someone of Tom’s quality and experience to York. His appointment opens up many opportunities as undoubtedly Tom will bring a new energy to the theatre and to Yorkshire.

“We are very fortunate to be able to welcome a rising star."

Emma Rice, Artistic Director of Shakespeare’s Globe, said: “Tom Bird is an exceptional producer, leader and colleague. He is one of the brightest stars in the industry and combines the rare qualities of a fierce intellect, a curious mind and an ability to listen, change and adapt.

"We will miss him terribly at Shakespeare's Globe, but our loss is York's gain. We cheer him into this exciting new adventure with thanks, respect and heartfuls of love!”