Broadway Across America announces new senior leadership team

Restructuring Leadership at Broadway Across America

Broadway Across America (BAA), a major player in showcasing touring shows across North America, is making significant changes in its leadership structure. This transformation comes within the umbrella of the John Gore Organization, which also encompasses Broadway.com, BroadwayBox.com, “The Broadway Show,” Group Sales Box Office, and Broadway Brands (including Broadway News).

Rich Jaffe: Transitioning to Sole CEO

Rich Jaffe, who currently holds the co-CEO position at BAA alongside Jeff Daniel, is set to assume the role of sole CEO. This move follows Jeff Daniel’s announcement of his departure from the organization, with his transition expected to conclude by August 15.

Susie Krajsa: Expanding Responsibilities as President

Susie Krajsa will retain her role as BAA president while also taking on additional responsibilities. Serving as president since 2018, Krajsa is responsible for guiding the organization’s regional teams.

Elevated Senior Leadership Team

The reshuffle extends to the senior leadership team, with several individuals being promoted to more prominent positions.

• Rob Cheatham, previously the vice president of operations at BAA, is stepping into the role of senior vice president of operations and labor.
• Jill Keyishian, who formerly held the position of vice president of programming, is now the senior vice president of programming.
• Joanna Minerley, formerly the vice president of ticketing and analytics, has now been named senior vice president of sales and analytics.
• Kurt Rodeghiero, who was previously the vice president of production investments and content, will be taking over as senior vice president of strategy.

Rich Jaffe expressed his enthusiasm for the new team, stating, “The members of this new team are leaders in our industry, experts in bringing the best of Broadway to North America, and undoubtedly the right stewards for our company. I am honored to lead the team and am grateful for the opportunity.”

Leadership Backgrounds and Expertise

Before taking on the co-CEO role, Rich Jaffe first joined BAA in 2010 to lead Broadway in Boston, overseeing operations in that specific regional market. Prior to this, he played a significant role in the leadership team at Trinity Repertory Company, a leading nonprofit theater. Notably, Jaffe founded and launched the industry’s pioneering web-based sales analytics company, Live Audience Business Solutions (LABS).

Lauren Reid, President of the John Gore Organization, emphasized the importance of fostering growth at all levels to maintain a strong team over the long term. She noted, “As the members of this new senior management team, who represent nearly 150 years of combined experience at BAA, step into larger roles, so too do the next generation of BAA leaders. It is our special blend of deeply experienced leadership and passionate young talent that ensures not just BAA’s success today, but also its enduring organizational position for tomorrow.”

John Gore, Chairman, and CEO of the John Gore Organization also acknowledged the changes in personnel. He expressed gratitude for Jeff Daniel’s significant contributions, especially his role in government relations that facilitated the acquisition of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grants, a crucial factor in the post-pandemic recovery of the entire industry. Gore conveyed his appreciation and best wishes for Daniel’s future endeavors.

BAA’s Expansive Presence and Current Productions

Broadway Across America operates across 48 markets in the United States and Canada, boasting a subscriber base exceeding 400,000 individuals. The organization is responsible for presenting a range of popular productions, including the timeless classics “The Lion King,” “Wicked,” and “Hamilton.” Currently, BAA is showcasing an array of captivating shows such as “& Juliet,” “Hadestown,” “Hamilton,” “Kimberly Akimbo,” “MJ,” and “Moulin Rouge!”

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future

The restructuring of Broadway Across America’s leadership heralds a new era for the organization. With Rich Jaffe stepping into the role of sole CEO and an enhanced senior leadership team, BAA is poised to continue its legacy of bringing the magic of Broadway to audiences across North America. The combination of seasoned industry veterans and emerging talent ensures not only the success of BAA in the present but also its enduring prominence in the years to come. As the curtains rise on this new chapter, theater enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate a future filled with captivating performances and memorable experiences.