Tessa Ross (1980, Oriental Studies) has been appointed Chief Executive of the National Theatre in London.
Ross has been Controller of Film & Drama at Channel 4 and was responsible for commissioning or approving a range of sitcoms and films, from Shameless to 12 Years a Slave. She has been at Channel 4 for 13 years.
Channel 4 Chief Executive David Abraham ws reported by The Guardian as saying that Ross had “made as big a contribution to Channel 4 as anyone in history”.
John Makinson, Chairman of the National Theatre, said that Ross’s experience and reputatin as a producer and executive “need no introduction”.
She will work closely with Rufus Norris, who will be the National’s Artistic Director from April 2015.
“I am both thrilled and honoured that Tessa Ross is coming to join us at the NT, and to be my partner at the helm of this unique organisation,” said Norris. “She is an extraordinary woman: a world-class producer, a tireless supporter and promoter of both emerging and established artists, a great manager and businesswoman. She empowers and encourages people to their best work. Furthermore, she is and has always been a passionate believer in the National Theatre. I can’t wait to start working with her.”
Ross, who was awarded Bafta’s Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award in 2013, said she was delighted with the appointment.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the National Theatre: one of our most iconic and significant cultural institutions and a place that I’ve loved since I was very young,” said Ross. “Under Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr’s leadership, it’s been an exceptional and inspiring home for the theatrical and creative communities, and I’m privileged to be working with Rufus to build its next chapter.
More details of her appointment can be found on the National Theatre website.