West End theatre producer Kenny Wax has been announced as the new president of the Society of London Theatre.

The organisation, which represents the London theatre industry, has appointed Wax to replace Caro Newling, who has served a three year stint.

Wax – whose current London productions include The Play That Goes Wrong, The Comedy About A Bank Robbery and La Strada - said he was honoured to work for the organisation which produces the Olivier Awards.

He said: “As we face new challenges and opportunities, SOLT’s work is more important than ever.

“It is an honour to have been asked to take on this role and to help our members safeguard our industry.”

He added: “Due to the innovative work of Caro Newling, chief executive Julian Bird and their excellent team SOLT continues to position itself at the very heart of everything progressive which is happening in Theatreland.”

Wax landed his first theatre gig as an usher at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1989. There he gained experience as a follow-spot operator, flyman, a member of the stage crew and box office clerk.

The 50-year-old has won three Olivier Awards for his productions - Best New Musical for Top Hat and Once On This Island and Best New Comedy for The Play That Goes Wrong, which has recently opened on Broadway.

Julian Bird, chief executive of SOLT, said: “In an ever-changing and fast-moving industry, Kenny will be a huge asset to the organisation.

“Having worked at every level in theatre, there is no better champion of our work. SOLT would also like thank Caro Newling for her tireless work as president particularly her work and passion for training and building new audiences.”