Farnham Maltings has confirmed Farnham man Peter Glanville is to take over as its new chief executive officer (CEO), succeeding Gavin Stride who retired in September.

Mr Glanville will take up the role on January 23, after nine “truly extraordinary” years as artistic director and joint CEO of Polka Theatre in Wimbledon.

He will be responsible for driving forward the work and community of the Maltings, building on the legacy of Mr Stride who in his 20 years as Maltings’ CEO built the arts venue into one of the foremost cultural centres in the south east of England.

Mr Glanville said: “It is a huge privilege for me to be taking up the position of director and CEO at Farnham Maltings.

“The organisation has gained an international reputation for its work supporting artists, as well as establishing the house network of venues across south-east England and producing exceptional theatre for rural communities.

“From its beautiful arts and cultural centre in the heart of Farnham, a World Craft Town, it has also continued to improve the quality of people’s lives with a thriving programme of performances and participative activities.

“Together with a committed team, I look forward to building on the exceptional legacy Gavin Stride has left from his 20 years of leadership.”

Michael Maher, chairman of the board of directors for Farnham Maltings Ltd, said: “The board of the Maltings is excited about Peter joining us as director and CEO. We went through a very robust process, with a large field of candidates, and Peter’s appointment was endorsed wholeheartedly by the directors.

“As we enter an exciting era for the Maltings, Peter will bring a new set of eyes to our issues, and working with the Maltings’ team, our stakeholders, the local community and the directors, we will together shape the strategy for the coming ten years.

“Our objectives remain the same, the environment has changed and we will adapt accordingly. We all look forward to working with Peter from January.”

Dominic Proctor, chairman of trustees for Polka, said: “We are incredibly sorry to see Peter leave, after what has been a truly extraordinary nine years.

“He has driven Polka’s varied and ambitious creative programme, built exciting new partnerships and helped shape the imaginative new space Polka Theatre is for children, particularly in the past year since we reopened.”