Founder member Jane Hytch is to step down as chief executive of Coventry-based outdoor and site-specific company Imagineer at the end of 2023.
Alongside founder members Kathi Leahy, Claire Maddocks and Andrea Simpson, Hytch “has embedded herself in the arts in Coventry, growing Imagineer into a thriving organisation, housed in the Daimler Powerhouse with national portfolio investment from Arts Council England, and with a strong future ahead with new chief executive and creative director Angus MacKechnie”.
Hytch said, "I’m immensely proud of what Imagineer has achieved over the past 18 years, playing a part in the growing cultural sector in Coventry, and through the meaningful engagements we’ve had with the people of Coventry as well as communities across the UK.
"It’s almost impossible to pick individual highlights. The culmination of each project has brought me—and all those involved—much joy and pride. Moments that come to mind include the first time the giant Godiva walked; UK fashion icon Zandra Rhodes, high up on a cherry-picker fixing Godiva’s frock in a secret location in Coventry; and Godiva and her Cyclopedia being chased by Hampshire police as she rode along the A5 to London during the Olympic Games. So many wonderful memories along with personal and shared achievements.”
John McGuigan, chair of the Imagineer board, commented, “Jane is someone who makes a difference. Not many people can really say they changed a city and its people. Jane is someone who can. On behalf of all those individuals and communities that Jane has inspired and enthused, we say thanks.”