RSC appoints Southbank’s Mallyon as new executive director

Nigel Hugill, the RSC’s new chairman, said: “Catherine brings considerable and varied experience to the RSC,
spanning live theatre, large-scale arts organisational management and
investment banking. Working alongside Greg Doran, I am confident that
we have the right balance for the RSC to build upon its existing strong
foundations.”

Gregory Doran added: “I am greatly looking forward to working with Catherine. She brings
huge experience with her from Southbank Centre, which will be invaluable
to the organisation as we move forward.”

Vikki Heywood has been with the RSC since 2004 and worked with Boyd to overturn the company’s deficit and reintroduce the ensemble system. During their tenure, the company has staged seasons including the award-winning Histories Cycle and the landmark Complete Works Festival.

Heywood said today she is “very pleased” to be handing over to Mallyon. “I have
thoroughly enjoyed my last nine years as RSC Executive Director and,
although sad to go, I am delighted to be able to leave the company in
such talented hands,” she added.

Catherine Mallyon has worked at the Southbank Centre since 2005, with major projects including reopening Royal Festival Hall after refurbishment in 2007 and the renewal of Hayward Gallery in 2010. She was previously general manager of Reading arts and theatres.

Mallyon said of her new role: “It is a great honour to take up this appointment and I join with
enthusiasm and longstanding respect and affection for the RSC … These are successful and
exciting times for the RSC and I will work to sustain and develop the
Company’s excellence at home in Stratford-upon-Avon, regionally,
nationally and internationally.”