Tessa Ross steps down as chief executive of National Theatre

Tessa Ross has announced that she is to step down as chief executive of the National Theatre, after just six months in the post.

Ross will remain working with the National as a consultant, while Norris will continue to lead the NT as artistic director, with Lisa Burger as executive director.

Tessa Ross said: "I joined the NT last year and have got to know the organisation in great detail. However, it has become clear to me that the new leadership structure, with a separate role of chief executive, is not right for the NT at this time, and so I have decided to step down.

"I will, with great pleasure, continue to work with Rufus and Lisa as a consultant, ensuring the smooth delivery of their first season and planning for the next one. It is an institution that I love and for which it has been a great privilege to work."

John Makinson, chairman of the National Theatre, responded: "It is with great regret that we are saying goodbye to Tessa in this role. She is an outstanding producer and executive and has already made a significant contribution to the National. However, we recognise and salute the integrity of her decision."

Norris, who officially succeeded Nicholas Hytner as artistic director two weeks ago, added: "Tessa's role in the planning of my first year and beyond at the NT has been invaluable and immense. I’m sad that our partnership is ending prematurely but am grateful for everything she has done here, and happy that we'll work together on a consultancy basis."