“The Los Angeles Philharmonic, in a surprise announcement just weeks before its season opener, said Chief Executive Simon Woods will depart the company immediately, after less than two years on the job,” writes Deborah Vankin in Monday’s (9/16) Los Angeles Times. “The announcement, by board chair Jay Rasulo, did not say why Woods is leaving. Woods assumed his position in January 2018. Rasulo and board chair designate Thomas L. Beckmen will serve as interim leadership until a new chief executive is named…. ‘The Los Angeles Philharmonic is an extraordinary organization in every respect,’ … Woods said in the announcement Monday. ‘However, after a great deal of reflection, I have concluded that my hopes and aspirations lie elsewhere, and as a result, I have tendered my resignation.’ Woods’ departure follows the orchestra’s historic and successful centennial season…. Woods, a London native who studied conducting and composition at Cambridge University, came to the L.A. Phil from the Seattle Symphony, where he served as president and chief executive for more than six years. Prior to that, he was chief executive of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. In L.A., Woods replaced President and Chief Executive Deborah Borda, who led the organization for 17 years.”
Posted September 17, 2019
