The National Concert Hall (NCH) has announced the appointment of Robert Read as its new Chief Executive.

Mr Read most recently held the position of Managing Director of Kings Place, London, and will take up his new role as CEO with the National Concert Hall Ireland on February 1st, 2021.

The National Concert Hall provides world class music and entertainment for all ages. The venue is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, along with Music Network, Music Generation, Chamber Choir Ireland, Irish Baroque Orchestra and Crash Ensemble.

"I’m absolutely thrilled and honoured to be leading the National Concert Hall and extremely excited about joining at this pivotal moment in its history," Mr Read stated.

"I’m looking forward to working with our Chairperson, the Board, the NCH team and all our partners as we work towards reopening the hall as a symbol of national pride and, once again, presenting life-enhancing, world-class music to our audiences".

In his role of Managing Director of Kings Place, London - an independent, multi-award-winning performance and conference centre - Read is credited for transforming and radically modernising the organisation through many strategic initiatives and projects.

Mr Read led the company through its most successful period, achieving record audiences, financial success, critical acclaim and raising industry profile. He committed to increasing access, equality and diversity in cultural organisations, and is passionate about reaching the widest possible audience. He previously held the position of Chief Operating Officer of DACS. The UK’s leading not for profit, visual rights management organisation distributes over £20 million a year to artists and visual creators via the management of their intellectual property and royalties.

Commenting on his appointment, Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media said:

“I wish to congratulate Mr. Read on his appointment and wish him the very best in his new role. I thank him for taking on this very important position and offering his skills and expertise to the National Concert Hall in these very challenging times.”

In meeting the challenges of Covid-19, the National Concert Hall has continued to develop its programme by presenting livestream concerts and learning and participation workshops online, and staying connected to audiences while providing performance opportunities for artists.

In September of this year, the NCH will mark its 40th anniversary.