Screen Australia has announced Richard Huddleston as its upcoming head of documentary. Set to assume his role on January 29, Huddleston will be taking over from Alex West, who has led the department since 2021 and is departing the agency on January 14.
Huddleston, whose most recent tenure was as the acting head of factual and culture at ABC, brings a decade of experience from the broadcaster. His ABC journey included overseeing a range of acclaimed projects, notably ‘Stuff the British Stole’, ‘War on Waste’, and ‘Old People’s Home for Teenagers’.
His roles at ABC encapsulated various key positions, including managing editor factual and culture and supervising executive producer.
Prior to his tenure at ABC, Huddleston’s career spanned a range of roles in the UK and Asia. His expertise was honed through his work as a director, producer, and writer for broadcasters like Discovery and Discovery Asia. His international experience also includes stints at Bazal, Endemol, Keo Films, and RDF Media, contributing to factual content on networks such as ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, National Geographic, and ABC America.
In his new capacity at Screen Australia, Huddleston will report to Grainne Brunsdon, head of content. Brunsdon expressed enthusiasm about Huddleston’s appointment, highlighting his “wealth of experience and passion for storytelling.” She anticipates Huddleston will be an “invaluable asset” to the team, further enhancing Australian narratives and documentary filmmaking.
“At a pivotal time for the nation’s brilliant documentary and factual community, I am thrilled to be starting this new chapter of my career with Screen Australia.
After 25 years in the industry, people, places, landscapes, and their stories continue to excite and inspire me,”
Huddleston remarked regarding his appointment.
His vision involves collaborating closely with producers and the market to address challenges, foster growth, and showcase Australian talent globally.
Furthermore, Screen Australia is in the process of appointing new leaders for its scripted division and chief operating officer role. These changes come alongside the arrival of the agency’s new CEO, Deirdre Brennan, who starts her tenure in January.
Huddleston’s appointment marks a significant phase for Screen Australia, as the organization continues to evolve and adapt in the ever-changing landscape of the film and television industry.
