Screen Australia chairman Glen Boreham to go
Boreham
The inaugural chairman of Screen Australia Glen Boreham will step down on June 30 after six years in the role.
Boreham, a former managing director of IBM Australia, was the first person to chair Screen Australia when the industry body was formed in 2008, replacing the Australian Film Commission and the Film Finance Corporation and Film Australia.
He was then reappointed chairman in 2011 at the end of his three year term.
Announcing his departure Boreham said: “It has been an enormous pleasure working with the dedicated Screen Australia team to help support, promote and grow Australian storytelling.
“As the inaugural chair of Screen Australia it has always been my intention to stay five to six years to set up the agency, drive its long-term strategic goals and leave it in good shape for the future.”
Boreham said it was a “perfect time” to handover to a new chair following the appointment of new CEO Graeme Mason in November and restructured the executive leadership team.
“Screen Australia’s immediate future is in excellent hands with the current board and management team,” he said.
During his tenure Boreham said Screen Australia has reduced its operating costs by 40 per cent and channelled funds into the development and production of Australian programming, Boreham said.
“Much of our growth and success in the screen industry has taken place against the background of tough global economic conditions, a high Australian dollar and a rapidly changing media landscape,” he said.
“In this climate, direct and indirect government support, including an appropriate regulatory environment, will continue to be fundamental to the success of the industry.
“I have greatly valued the contribution of my fellow board members across the years and thank them for their support of great Australian storytelling.”
Senator George Brandis said in a statement: “The Screen Australia board, chaired by Glen, is a dynamic, robust and passionate group which has steered the organisation to promote Australian stories that are accessible and relevant and have the ability to shape our cultural identity and consciousness.
“Glen has had a particular influence in promoting programs that support business sustainability and that contribute significant economic and cultural value to Australia.”
Brandis said Boreham’s legacy is the Enterprise Program to provide funding for production. The scheme has so far provided $19.5m to 29 companies, which then reported significant gains in revenue, profitability and diversity of investment and income, Brandis said.
Yesterday Mumbrella held a live hangout with Greame Mason where he talked about a range of issues facing the Australian film industry,
