Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network has announced the selection of Mark A. Nichols as its new executive director. The selection was made after a nationwide search.

“We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” said board president Sallie Maron.

“Mark brings leadership and creativity to the BARN organization. He will guide us through the process of moving into our permanent home, a 25,000-square-foot facility currently under construction off of New Brooklyn Road. His experience in nonprofit arts organizations, and his extensive background as a manager, producer and designer will help BARN navigate through a period of rapid growth.”

Nichols has been active in performing arts since he was 8 years old, eventually earning his BFA in drama at the University of Southern California and MFA in theatre from the University of Central Florida.

As the performing arts director for Spirit Square Center for the Arts, a Charlotte-based nonprofit, he has promoted and produced more than 250 concerts, theatre and dance productions.

For three decades, Nichols developed a career in corporate-themed entertainment as a producer and a designer for the Walt Disney Corp, Universal Studios, Paramount Parks, GES Branded Entertainment and ITEC Entertainment.

In addition to overseeing the business aspect of the projects he produced, Nichols also led the efforts of his creative teams. His notable successes as a producer include the global “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” tour and “Reflections of Earth,” Disney’s nighttime spectacular at Epcot.

Nichols moved to the island a year ago with his wife Blair. He was part of the team that put together BARN’s Fourth of July float and drill team presentation, which won the parade’s Buxton-Ellis prize for most humorous entry.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this amazing organization and our new community,” he said.