After two months as interim president and CEO, Peter Perez now has been made the official president and CEO of the Grand Rapids Symphony.
Perez stepped in as interim president in preparation for Peter Kjome’s departure in January. He previously was the symphony’s board chairperson from 2013 to 2015, and since 1990 was also the owner of Carter Products, a manufacturing company.
Even though the symphony had put together a search committee for a new president, they decided Perez fit the bill nicely.
“We were looking for someone who would connect with our community and donors, with our musicians and staff, and who would provide leadership for the organization,” said Charles Frayer, co-chair of the symphony’s Presidential Search Committee. “But having a seasoned businessman also was very important to us.”
The symphony also cited Perez’s infectious enthusiasm for the GRS as a decision-making factor, as well as the fact he rarely takes “no” for an answer.
“I’m in awe of our musicians and what they produce. Anything I can do to support that mission is a real honor,” Perez said in a statement.
Perez’s position became effective on Thursday, March 16.
