Catherine said, “It has been an enormous privilege to lead the RSC for the past 11 years with an incredible roster of collaborators in Gregory Doran, Erica Whyman and now Tamara Harvey and Daniel Evans.

“It has only become possible for me to think beyond the RSC, about the many things I still hope to do professionally and personally, now that we have emerged from the challenges of recent years and arrived at such a positive place. It was always my intention to see Tamara and Daniel into post. With such a strong leadership team and a wonderful audience- and artist-focused creative vision, this feels like the right time to pass on the baton, as the RSC moves into this next chapter – which I know will be a hugely exciting one.

“I am also grateful for the loyalty, support and generosity of thousands of Subscribers, Members, Friends, Patrons, Artists and Production Circle supporters, all Donors, Partners and Funders throughout my tenure.”

Co-Artistic Directors Tamara Harvey and Daniel Evans said: “We couldn’t be more grateful to Catherine for her support and guidance as we have stepped into our roles here at the RSC. Her expertise and knowledge of the company are second to none, and her care and insight have proved invaluable as we prepare to announce our first season. She will be much missed by everyone here, and we wish her every happiness and success for the future.”

Chair of the RSC Board, Shriti Vadera added: “On behalf of the Board and Governors at the RSC, I would like to thank Catherine for the commitment, dedication and passion with which she led as Executive Director of the company.

"We have been incredibly fortunate to have had her skill and steadying hand at the helm for the past decade, not least having navigated us through the pandemic – undoubtedly one of the most challenging periods the industry has ever faced – and seeing through the transition of the new Co-Artistic Directors.

"I’m personally very grateful to Catherine for her support during these times of significant change; and for paving the way for Tamara and Daniel as they have joined the company. The impact of her tenure will be reflected throughout the company as it moves ever onwards.”

Details of the recruitment process for the next Executive Director will be announced over the coming weeks.