New CEO for Screen Australia

Chief Executive of the New Zealand Film Commission Graeme Mason has been appointed as the new CEO of Screen Australia.

Mason, who has over 20 years of international experience in film, television and multi-media businesses, was chosen by the Board from over 250 international candidates.

Mason said, “After so many years away I am delighted to be coming home to Australia to take on such an exciting role and to build on the great work of Ruth Harley and her team. I am really looking forward to working as part of the Australian screen industry to help tell our stories to domestic and global audiences and to continue to build a vibrant and sustainable screen sector.”

SPAA’s Executive Director Matthew Deaner said, “I would like to congratulate Graeme on his appointment and I look forward to developing a strong working relationship with him as Screen Australia enters their next phase. This marks the start of a period of change within the agency and it is fundamental that we continue to work hand-in-hand to ensure that there is sustained growth from targeted government incentives.

“Mr Mason’s appointment builds on an extensive career in film and television across production, distribution and government sectors. He brings a wealth of experience from both Australia and abroad, joining Screen Australia from his current role as Chief Executive of the New Zealand Film Commission.”

Screen Australia Chair Glen Boreham added, “As we look forward to welcoming Graeme to the agency, we also want to acknowledge the remarkable leadership of Ruth Harley as our inaugural CEO. Ruth can be very proud of her achievements during her five-year term, during which she brought the three former agencies together into one organisation and implemented a significant overhaul of our approach to development and funding of screen content.

“The results are there to see in some of the outstanding and diverse Australian content we have supported in recent years, from The Sapphires to Redfern Now, and from Once upon a Time in Cabramatta to Big Stories, Small Towns. We are very grateful for Ruth’s contributions to Screen Australia and to the Australian screen sector.”

Mason will commence his new role in November.