Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra CEO resigns

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Updated: February 3, 2012 11:15PM

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is looking for a new president and CEO following the abrupt departure of the man who’s held that post for seven years.

Simon Crookall announced Thursday that he had resigned and is “ready to move on to my next challenge” but wishes the group’s staff and musicians well. The 51-year-old Cheshire, England, native helped guide the orchestra through a recession while handling one conductor’s departure and welcoming a young successor.

The Indianapolis Star reports that his abrupt departure surprised some in the Indianapolis arts community.

The orchestra says vice president of finance and strategic planning Jackie Groth will serve as interim president and CEO while the group’s board of directors searches for a new president and CEO.