The former chief executive of Manchester’s renowned Bridgewater Hall has been appointed to lead Birmingham’s Town Hall and Symphony Hall.

Nick Reed will take over from Andrew Jowett when he retires early next year .

The selection panel was impressed by Mr Hall’s 30 years of experience in running theatres and concert halls across England and Wales.

Mr Reed launched The Helix, a new arts centre in Dublin, before managing concert venue Bridgewater Hall for the past ten years.

Anita Bhalla, chairman of Performances Birmingham, said the panel had been impressed by Mr Reed’s track record, particularly on the commercial side.

She said: “Nick offers Performances Birmingham the right mix of leadership, artistic knowledge and commercial acumen as it looks to build on the achievements of the past 25 years.

“In particular, Nick’s commercial experience at Bridgewater Hall will be important to the future development of Town Hall Symphony Hall.”

Mr Reed has strong links with Birmingham. His family moved here when he was a baby and he attended King Edward VI School, in Edgbaston.

In recent years, he has been active in new business development for Bridgewater Hall owner SMG Europe, responding to the challenges facing many local authorities in how they manage their arts facilities.

Mr Reed said: “I am thrilled to be coming back to Birmingham as chief executive of these two great concert halls.

“I grew up going to concerts at Town Hall and I have delighted in seeing Symphony Hall take its place as one of the finest halls in the world.

“Birmingham has always been a major centre for the arts and entertainment and the transformation the city is currently undergoing will enhance its reputation further.

“I am passionate about music and its place in all our lives and want to ensure that future generations benefit from this musical heritage.”

Mr Jowett said Mr Reed was a strong choice. He said: “I have known Nick Reed for over 20 years and think he will do a fantastic job for PBL and I look forward to working with him on the handover.”