Belinda Burns has secured the permanent role of chief creative officer of Screen Queensland.
Burns has already been acting in the role for four months as the organisation undertook a recruitment search following the departure of Jo Dillon.
Prior to acting in the role, Burns was head of marketing and communications for the Government body. She is also a published novelist with a PhD in creative writing and a background in lecturing and course development in literature and film studies.
In addition, Burns has been general manager of Ogilvy Australia’s social marketing agency The Reputation Group in Melbourne and associate director at global PR network Citigate in London.
Kylie Munnich, CEO of Screen Queensland, said she is looking forward yo working closely with Belinda, particularly in creating the new Screen Queensland 2022-25 Strategic Plan.
“Belinda contributes a long list of high-level skills, with international experience, encompassing executive leadership, strategic planning, creative writing, education and government liaison,” she said.
“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.”
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,” she said.
“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.”
Screen Queensland is now seeking to replace the head of marketing and communications role. More details about the role can be found here.
In recent months, Screen Queensland has lured “The Bachelor” franchise to film on the Gold Coast and revealed the Australian premiere of Baz Luhrmann’s film “Elvis” will also take place there.
In addition, the organisation has unveiled new funding for North and Far North Queensland screen businesses and launched a new Games Grants Program.
