Screen Queensland has announced that Chief Creative Officer Belinda Burns will leave the company at the end of this month after almost five years with the company.
Mr Burns joined Screen Queensland in 2021 as Head of Marketing and Communications and was appointed to his current role in 2022.
As CCO, Dr Burns was the driving force behind Screen Queensland’s $3 million Business Enterprise Fund, the 2024 Content Guidelines review and the introduction of slate funding for local production companies aimed at prioritizing the growth of Queensland-owned intellectual property. She also led the expansion of our digital games program and investment in practitioners creating for new platforms through the introduction of online production grants.
Her other achievements include helping Queensland secure an AACTA award, devising the format for the agency’s flagship industry conference, In the Frame, leading the development of Screen Queensland’s sustainability roadmap, and representing the agency as a founding member of Sustainable Screens Australia.
He also served as acting chief executive in 2023, leading the organization until Jackie Feeney took over in the same year.
Mr Burns, who will be staying at the Queensland Writers’ Center, said he was looking forward to seeing the local film industry continue to thrive “into 2032 and beyond”.
“I have seen significant growth and expansion of our local industry across content and games, along with the strengthening of Queensland’s recognition as a creative powerhouse for film stories across all genres, formats and platforms,” she said.
“While I’m excited to be returning to the creative field with a residency at the Queensland Writers’ Center, the hardest part of leaving Screen Queensland will be saying goodbye to Screen Queensland, an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate group of people who are committed to the continued growth of the industry and leveraging the value and opportunities that screen offers Queensland.
“I would like to thank our tireless CEO, Jackie Feeney, for her leadership, guidance, support and spirit.”
Mr Feeney said Belinda’s decision to return to the creative side as a full-time writer reflected her deep commitment to the art of storytelling and connecting with audiences.
“At the heart of everything Belinda brings to the Screen Queensland team through her many accomplishments is her unwavering spirit of seeking opportunities to uplift local creators and support local stories to find a home on the global stage,” she said.
Screen Queensland has recently commenced executive searches for two new roles (Executive Director, Screen Content and Executive Director, Industry and Audience Development) and expects to announce these appointments in the coming weeks.
