(Paul Miller) Richard Davenport
HAROLD FINLEY is stepping down from Stage Directors UK (SDUK) after two and a half years at the helm.
Finley has overseen the initial transition of SDUK to become a trade union.
To succeed him, former Artistic Director of Orange Tree Theatre PAUL MILLER has been named transitional Executive Director.
The organisation said Finley’s departure came as it began to "plan the long-term reform of leadership to reflect the structure of a trade union", including appointing a General Secretary and General Council to replace the current board.
Finley, who departs to embark on a career as a freelance theatre director, said: "I joined SDUK to instil change.
"What I am most proud of is having helped so many members with contracts, disputes, grievances and having listened to, laughed, cried and celebrated with directors across the UK.
"I leave SDUK knowing it is now a stronger, more diverse and more modern organisation.”
Miller added: "I am proud to take up the reins at this critical moment to build on Harold Finley’s achievements in modernising SDUK and moving it towards unionisation.
"Directors have been historically underpaid, and our predominantly freelance status makes our position especially precarious.
"With the present economic crisis and an industry undergoing great change, there is much to do to improve our lot: I look forward to the challenges ahead.”