SAINT PAUL, MINN.: The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts has named Jamie Grant as its new president and CEO. Grant will begin the role in the spring, and he succeeds Patricia A. Mitchell, who retired in 2015 after eight years at the presenting house.

“The Ordway is nationally recognized for its outstanding programming, world-class resident companies, the Arts Partnership and education initiatives, and is set in the heart of one of the most robust arts communities in the country” said Grant in a statement. “I am absolutely thrilled to be joining this incredible team of community leaders and professionals to continue to grow the value of the Ordway to the Twin Cities.”

With more than 30 years of experience in arts management, Grant is currently president and CEO of the Long Center in Austin, a position he’s held since 2011. Prior to that, he spent 13 years as general manager of Centre in the Square in Kitchener, Ontario. He’s also a founding member and was chairman of the board of the Magnetic North Theatre Festival in Canada.

“Jamie’s credentials are impressive, as he has successfully led the operations and growth of almost a dozen theaters and performing arts centers in Canada and the U.S.,” said Laura McCarten, vice chair of the Ordway’s board of directors and co-chair of the search committee, in a statement. “His reputation as one of the best in the industry precedes him. But, it was his strategic thinking, passion for the arts, community spirit and new vision for the Ordway’s future that really made him stand out in our eyes.”