THE hunt is on for a new chief executive for Greenock’s Beacon Arts Centre.

Current theatre boss Jackie Shearer has announced she is leaving the organisation to take up a post in Glasgow developing a new cultural and community venue at the city’s Springburn Winter Gardens.

Jackie, who has been in charge for two years, praised the team at the waterfront venue and tipped it for a bright future.

She said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Beacon and have got to know a great community and some very talented people.

“I hope that with the team, I’ve managed to open up the Beacon for the wider community and that it goes on to flourish.”

Allan Robertson, chairman of Greenock Arts Guild Ltd, the company which owns and operates the theatre, thanked the outgoing boss for the impact she has made.

He said: “Even in the short time that Jackie has been there, she has made a tremendous contribution in moving the Beacon forward.

“Attendance figures have increased, the diversity of programmes has improved and the Beacon has attained greater recognition and support both locally and nationally.

“I and my fellow directors appreciate the contribution that Jackie has made to the Beacon and we will be very sorry to see her leave.

“However, we understand the reasons for the decision that she has taken and we wish her well in her new challenging job.”

The hunt for a new chief executive is under way and officials expect there to be no shortage of applications for the post.

Allan said: “Jackie will still be with us for a few months.

“However, we will now start the recruitment process for a new chief executive.

“I am confident, given the Beacon’s reputation, that we will receive a good response.

“This is an opportunity to find the right applicant to continue to build on the Beacon’s success.”