San Diego Symphony CEO Edward "Ward" Gill will step down from his post when his contract ends on September 30, 2014.
Gill has been with the symphony for 10 years. During that time, the organization increased its budget from $8.5 million to nearly $22 million.
Gill explained his reasons for leaving in a press release: “I have completed the vision of the 10-year plan with the San Diego Symphony, and it is now time to assess the next exciting stage of my life. I still have some aspirations and goals, but this time they are of a personal nature.”
Gill added, “The Symphony world requires attention 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And as much as I thrive in this business, I’d now like to switch my focus, clear my schedule and see what opportunities lay ahead.”
This fall, the Symphony debuted at Carnegie Hall and completed its first international tour to China. Gill also presided over recent renovations to the upper and lower lobbies of Copley Symphony Hall.
Evelyn Olson Lamden, chair of the San Diego Symphony’s board of directors, is quoted in the press release: “Upon Ward’s departure, he will leave behind a solid artistic and fiscally-sound organization that will ensure a smooth transition for his successor.”
A search committee has been formed to find Gill’s replacement.
