Former fulcrum, Media Finance Chief Tim Phillips, has been appointed Managing Director of Werner Film Productions.
The departure from Phillips’ fulcrum was first flagged last week. It was reported that he had left “a senior role in production.” He has been working for a debt finance company since 2022, serving as both CEO and COO. Prior to that, he worked for Screen Australia for 12 years.
The Menzies exit comes six years after Werner Film Productions, overseeing a variety of production slates, including ABC newsreaders, Netflix’s Survival Summer, and the Crazy Fan Park for the ABC Tween series. Despite his departure, he continues to oversee Applet V+ and 60Forty Films’ The Dispatcher, and is currently producing in Victoria.
The leadership transition occurs during the period of changes in Werner Film Productions, acquired by BBC Studios Productions Australia in 2024. Currently, they are developing and producing on several major projects, including the Knee High Spy in the Live Action Doll Series for ABC.
Company Director Joanna Warner praised Menzies as “a truly exceptional leader and creative partner.”
“His passion, deep industry knowledge and commitment to excellence helped shape Warner film productions for today’s company. While he and his wit and humor are missing out, we are extremely grateful for his contributions and support his decision to spend plenty of time,” she said.
She also welcomed the role to Phillips. “Tim is a respected and advanced leader with a strong track record on both the creative and business side of the industry. We look forward to working with him while continuing to expand our local and international footprint.”
Menzies looked back at his time with the company and said it was a privilege to work with Werner and his team.
“It’s not an easy decision to leave a place or a place you like to work with, but the team is in great hands. For me, I look forward to setting up my office as “I’m in Mexico…for a while…”. ”
