BETHESDA, MD.: Round House Theatre has named Ed Zakreski as its new managing director. Zareski is currently the chief development officer for Shakespeare Theatre Company, and will assume his position at Round House on July 1. The theatre has not had a managing director since producing artistic director Jerry Whiddon stepped down in 2005. Zakreski will serve alongside current producing artistic director Ryan Rilette.

“I am thrilled to welcome Ed to Round House as my partner,” said Rilette in a statement. “We have big dreams for Round House, and I’m confident that Ed is the leader we need to help realize them. I’ve gotten to know him well over the search period, and have deep respect for his skills. I expect that we will do great things together in the coming years.”

During his 10-year tenure at Shakespeare Theatre Company, Zakreski developed and implemented strategies to raise money for the company’s $75 million capital campaign. In addition to working with the board on multi-million dollar fundraising efforts, he increased the donor base by 10 percent. Prior to Shakespeare Theatre Company, he served as the director of individual campaigns, the manager of national advancement, and the assistant manager of annual giving at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Zakreski also served as the the executive director for both the Arlington Symphony and the Washington Bach Consort. He received his bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies in arts management from American University.

“I have enjoyed watching Ryan transform Round House since he arrived three years ago, and I am excited to work with him to continue the process,” said Zakreski in a statement. “I feel lucky to join a theatre with Ryan’s vision, a talented and hardworking staff, and a dedicated board.”