(Photo by Allan Cabral)

The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has announced the election of a new board chair.

The organization named Tom Smee the successor to Catherine Beck, who held the position for six years.

“Cathy’s leadership has been remarkable,” said Beck Family CEO Marik Williams in an official statement. “During her tenure, the Board hired our extraordinary Music Director, Gustavo Gimeno, navigated a global pandemic, eliminated a 40-year-old accumulated deficit, and made stunning returns to Massey Hall and Carnegie Hall. The TSO has grown immensely under Cathy’s guidance, and we are exceedingly grateful for her dedication and love of this orchestra.”

Smee has been on the board since 2016 and was recently Vice-Chair. He is the former Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of the Royal Bank of Canada.

“It is my great honor to continue to serve the TSO in my new role as Board Chair,” Smee stated. “The artistry, musicianship, and energy this phenomenal orchestra brings to every performance are incredibly inspiring, and I am thrilled to play an active and engaged part in an organization I love. I believe deeply that music is a powerful force—one that can make a positive difference in people’s lives—and I look forward to working with all TSO stakeholders to further amplify this institution’s impact across Toronto’s diverse communities.”

Additionally, the organization announced that Colleen Sexsmith, the President and Founder of CAS Accounting for Insurance Inc., has joined the board.