The Geffen Playhouse board of directors today announced that vice chair Gil Cates, Jr. will serve as the permanent executive director for the not-for-profit theatre after leading in an interim capacity since February.

Cates has long been familiar with the organization — having seen nearly every event produced or presented by the company since his father and the founder opened the theatre doors in 1995.

Board co-chairs Martha Henderson and Pamela Robinson Hollander offered praise for the newly appointed administrative leader of the organization.

“On behalf of the board of directors, we are delighted to announce Gil as executive director. His experience in theatre, film and television production and direction, combined with his passion for the Geffen, make him an ideal choice.”

Under Cates’ leadership, the organization launched a successful Legacy Fund and produced one of the highest grossing “Backstage at the Geffen” galas in the company’s history. In a few months, Cates and his team ushered in an announcement of the Geffen’s landmark 20th anniversary season as well as a host of special events, production extensions and new fundraising initiatives.

“It’s been a great honor these last three years to serve the board, and to help secure the future of the theater, and now to move into the executive director role is an even higher privilege,” Cates said. “My love for this theater is deeply rooted, and as we look to the future, we will continue to build upon the foundation, culture and legacy of giving new and emerging voices a special place to perform.”