In a significant shift at the helm, Screen Australia has announced the appointment of Deirdre Brennan as its Chief Executive Officer, set to take on the role from 8 January 2024.
A seasoned executive in both the domestic and international screen sectors, Brennan is no stranger to high-ranking positions. She recently fulfilled her duties as the Chief Operating Officer at WildBrain, an international independent entertainment conglomerate with a vast portfolio spanning content creation, distribution, brand management, and licensing.
Prior to this, Brennan showcased her leadership at BBC Worldwide Australia, where she took on multiple roles, including Director of Television, General Manager, and Director of Content. She has also notably served as the Head of Children’s Television at ABC TV and held the position of General Manager of Universal Kids at NBC Universal.
Nicholas Moore, the Chair of Screen Australia, expressed the board’s enthusiasm about Brennan’s appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Deirdre to Screen Australia at this pivotal time for the Australian screen industry. The Board was extremely impressed by Deirdre’s wealth of experience and we look forward to the positive impact she will make during her time in the role.
This appointment represents a remarkable opportunity to expand our capacity to tell Australian stories and connect with international audiences in new ways.”
Responding to her appointment, Deirdre Brennan stated:
“I am excited to return to Australia to lead such an important organisation, focusing on building a sustainable future for the creative industry amidst evolving technologies, competitive pressures and expanding platforms. Screen Australia’s mission is very clear and I will strive to be a passionate advocate and partner for our creators, storytellers and emerging talent.”
The transition period will see Brennan taking over from Graeme Mason, who is set to leave Screen Australia in early November. Mason has provided a decade of steadfast leadership to the agency.
In reflection on Mason’s commendable tenure, Nicholas Moore commented:
“As we welcome Deirdre, we bid farewell to Graeme after his remarkable 10-year tenure as CEO of Screen Australia. Since 2013, Graeme has led the agency through a period of rapid change and the sector has been strengthened by his dedication, passion and leadership. On behalf of the Board and the Screen Australia team, I would like to express my profound gratitude to Graeme, and I congratulate him on all that he has achieved.”
With the Australian screen industry in a constant state of flux and growth, all eyes will be on how Brennan charts the course for Screen Australia in the coming years.
