Screen Queensland (SQ) has appointed Dr Belinda Burns as chief creative officer (CCO) to drive the agency’s creative strategy and further grow Queensland’s reputation as a globally renowned screen hub.
Screen Queensland CEO Kylie Munnich said she is delighted that Dr Burns accepted the executive leadership position after acting in the role for four months, during a rigorous recruitment search.
“Belinda contributes a long list of high-level skills, with international experience, encompassing executive leadership, strategic planning, creative writing, education and government liaison,” said Munnich.
“Belinda’s diverse and international skills will be an incredible asset in our remit to promote Queensland’s film locations, studios and incentives, in a competitive international landscape.
“I look forward to working closely with Belinda, particularly as we begin creating the new Screen Queensland 2022-25 Strategic Plan,” she said.
As a published novelist with a PhD in creative writing, Dr Burns also has a background in lecturing and course development across literature and film studies, including screenwriting and screen adaptation courses at The University of Queensland and University of Southern Queensland.
She joined Screen Queensland in September 2020 as head of marketing and communications, following leadership roles such as general manager of Ogilvy Australia’s social marketing agency The Reputation Group in Melbourne, associate director at global PR network Citigate in London, and director of communications and engagement at Brisbane Girls Grammar School.
Dr Burns said she is eager to innovate, while championing a screen industry that is established and growing year-on-year.
“In 2020 I joined Screen Queensland at an equally exciting and challenging time for the local screen industry.
“In this time we have secured a record number of interstate and internationally-attracted productions, and witnessed the development and release of an array of inventive, successful, Queensland-made films, series and games.
“I’m passionate about developing valuable business partnerships and networks to launch new initiatives for the local screen sector, and to find strategic pathways to further establish Screen Queensland as a major player, nationally and internationally.
“Most of all, as a storyteller myself who has proudly mentored budding screenwriters, I want to empower Queensland’s diverse, creative community to bring their original, brave, funny, powerful ideas to screen,” Dr Burns added.
Screen Queensland is currently recruiting for the role of head of marketing and communications. Details regarding the application can be found at seek.com.au.