A local nonprofit dedicated to the economic development of Birmingham’s creative industries has named a new president and chief executive officer.
Meghann Bridgeman will join Create Birmingham as its president and CEO on July 15.
The Alabama native most recently was vice president of social venture partnerships at Per Scholas, a national organization focused on training underrepresented talent for careers in tech. Prior to that, she spent a decade as artistic director and chief operating officer of the San Angelo Civic Ballet.
“It is truly an honor to lead the organization in a new phase of growth and expand on the hugely impactful work of Buddy Palmer and the entire Create Birmingham team,” Bridgeman said. “Birmingham is a vibrant city with a burgeoning creative economy. I cannot think of an intersection more inspiring or an organization better poised to meet the creative community’s needs.”
Bridgeman will succeed Buddy Palmer, who has served as president and CEO of Create Birmingham for 13 years. He will work with Bridgeman briefly before he officially retires at the end of July.
Kathryn Corey, board chair of Create Birmingham, said Bridgeman’s over 13 years of nonprofit experience made her a great candidate for the post.
“Her experience in workforce development and her passion for the arts and culture sector is a powerful combination that is directly in line with the mission of our organization and the progress we will continue to make in our community,” Corey said.
Bridgeman’s appointment concludes a national search conducted by Create Birmingham’s executive search committee and Melva Tate of Tate & Associates.