Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) has announced the immediate departure of Chief Executive MARK CORNELL following a seven-year tenure. Succeeding Cornell is TED STIMPSON, who assumes the post today (17 October).
Cornell leaves the UK’s largest commercial theatre operator and ticketing company to become Senior Advisor to private equity company Providence, ATG’s partner and financial sponsor.
Under Cornell's leadership, ATG increased the number of venues it owns from 40 to 64 and underwent significant expansion in the US, announcing plans earlier this year to merge with New York-based venue owner and producer Jujamcyn Theatres LLC.
Previously, Cornell was Managing Director at Sotheby’s Europe and held positions at WH Smith, luxury goods company LVMH and yacht specialists Edmiston.
Cornell commented: “We have transformed this company and created a significant business within the exciting world of live entertainment.
“I am particularly proud of both the values and commitment within the Group to delivering world-class content from the leading theatre productions in the world, coupled with an enhanced audience experience.
“I look forward to observing the continued progress of the Group over the coming years.”
New CEO Stimpson joins ATG with over 30 years of leadership experience as the former Chief Executive at attractions marketing company Go City.
As a “theatre enthusiast”, Stimpson said he was “thrilled” to be joining and leading ATG. He plans to “further accelerate ATG’s growth strategy” and ensure "continued investment in our venues, state-of-the-art ticketing, digital marketing and new customer experiences”.
ANDREW TISDALE, ATG Board Member and Providence Senior Managing Director added: “We are pleased to welcome Ted, an outstanding leader with proven experience in delivering strategic and operational excellence at tech-enabled consumer-facing businesses.
“I want to thank Mark for his many contributions over the years and look forward to continuing to work with him as a Senior Advisor to Providence.”