Copyright Agency promotes GC to CEO role

The Copyright Agency is promoting  Josephine Johnston to the role of CEO, following the news of CEO Adam Suckling’s departure after six years.

Johnston will begin  her new role at the Copyright Agency on 7 February 2022, just as Suckling is set to depart.

Josephine Johnston

Johnston steps up from her current position at Copyright Agency as general counsel and company secretary, a role she has held since 2016. Johnston has also spent time at Fox Sports, Foxtel and law firm Allens.

On her appointment, Johnston said: “I look forward to working with the Board, my colleagues and all our stakeholders as we continue to evolve to a digital future. One of my first priorities will be to engage with the education sector and our other customers to better understand how we can meet their needs.

“It will be an honour to lead the Copyright Agency and represent Australian writers, visual artists and publishers. Copyright Agency has a fundamental role to play in ensuring that there is a healthy and fair system where creators continue to be rewarded for their work in producing essential content for our schools, universities, Governments and businesses.”

Copyright Agency chair Kate Harrison said: “Jo has worked with major media and content organisations in both a commercial and legal capacity for many years prior to joining the management team at Copyright Agency. She is well-placed to address the challenges and opportunities of the increasingly digital environment.”

Harrison continued: “The Board is confident that Adam leaves the Copyright Agency well-equipped to continue its digital transformation. We wish him every success in his next role.”

The Copyright Agency also recently appointed several new board members.