WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VT.: Northern Stage announced today that Eric Bunge will leave his position as managing director on Oct. 31. Bunge has been in the position since 2013. Associate managing director Irene Green, who has been working closely with Bunge since she took the position in January of this year, will cover the role until the board is able to fill the position.

“It has been an honor to serve three cherished theatres and communities during the past 30 years,” said Bunge in a statement. “When the new leadership team arrived nearly six years ago, we were able to build upon the hard work and passion that brought Northern Stage through its first 16 years and help lead this beloved theatre to a new level of success. This is a testament to those who came before us and to the faith and support of the people, businesses, and communities of the Upper Valley who make it all possible.”

During his time as managing director, Bunge worked closely with producing artistic director Carol Dunne to find and build a new facility for the theatre. Under Bunge’s leadership, in September 2015 the company opened the Barrette Center for the Arts.

“Eric has been a motivating leader in the remarkable growth and success Northern Stage has experienced in the past five years,” said Alfred Blum, chair of the board of directors in a statement. “He will continue at Northern Stage in an important role, leading special projects that the board of directors and leadership staff identify as essential to fulfilling the company’s strategic plans.”

Before joining Northern Stage, Bunge founded Commonweal Theatre Company in Lanesboro, Minn., where he worked as managing director for 23 years. He was also managing director at Great River Shakespeare Festival in Winona, Minn., when Dunne recruited him to Northern Stage.

Founded in 1997, Northern State engages audiences with contemporary productions as well as through extensive education and outreach programs.