New York City, NY: Local Projects has named Whitney Rutter as its Chief Executive Officer, and Jake Barton as Founder & Chief Creative Officer. This news comes after a banner 18 months for Local Projects, during which it opened five new institutions on three continents and won Fast Company’s 2021 Design Company of the Year and Best Design in North America Awards.
Rutter joined the firm five years ago with extensive experience within the visual arts, cultural, and technology sectors. As Managing Director and head of new business, Rutter has been instrumental in the growth and transformation of the studio’s creative leadership, global efforts, and the broadening and diversification of the studio’s capabilities.
“I’m honored to lead such a talented and passionate team, especially at a moment when we have such inspirational projects in the studio and on the horizon,” says Rutter. “The studio has always been driven by pushing boundaries and it is an exciting time to be at the center of transforming culture.”
Barton echoed Rutter’s enthusiasm: “Local Projects core mission to create world-changing experiences that deliver innovation and meaning has been advanced by Whitney’s vision and execution skills. She is the rare partner whose exceptional leadership and management skills come from a place of genuine love for the work, the staff, and all of our clients.”
Alexei Orlov, Founder and CEO of MTM, parent owner of Local Projects, also had praise to offer for both Rutter and Barton’s new roles:
