Kate Marks.
Australians in Film (AiF) has announced a board reshuffle. Former publicist for Paramount Pictures and Universal Studios Kate Ledger joins the board, while Ausfilm’s EVP of international production Kate Marks will become president.
In addition, board member and former chairman Tracey Vieira, CEO of Screen Queensland, has resigned to join the AiF Board of Advisors.
Perth-based Ledger, who is company director of Mintie Moo productions and sister of the late Heath Ledger, said she was thrilled at her appointment.
“I have always been an advocate for giving Australians the platform and support needed to help them make the transition to an international career. I am passionate about the Australian film industry and what it can contribute to international culture,” she said.
Marks relocated to Los Angeles in 2014 to commence her current role with Ausfilm after serving as Film Victoria’s general manager of incentives, locations and production services for a number of years. She has over 10 years’ experience in the Australian film and television industry.
“I am excited to be taking on this new and challenging role with Australians in Film. The organisation has grown substantially over the past few years and I look forward to working closely with the Board and staff lead by executive director Peter Ritchie to continue to build on the successes of my predecessors,” said Marks.
Vieira joined the AiF Board when she was Ausfilm’s EVP of international production at Ausfilm in Los Angeles in 2000, and continued her board role when she took over running Screen Queensland in 2014, including her most recent stint as Chairman.
“I have absolutely loved the past six years with AiF, seeing it through significant changes and growth. I feel its time to hand over my spot to someone new who can provide fresh energy, ideas and contacts which will enable the organisation to continue to grow. I welcome Kate Ledger to the board and Kate Marks to the Presidency,” Vieira said.
AiF chairman Simonne Overend noted the pivotal role Viera and Ledger have had in the organisation so far and the expertise that Marks will bring.
“Tracey has been instrumental in the enormous growth of AiF over the past few years. Her commitment and passion to AiF’s mission in investing in the Australian screen industry globally has been truly extraordinary and the impact of her work will be long-lasting. We are so pleased that she has agreed to join our Board of Advisors."
“Kate, and the entire Ledger family are an important part of AiF. We could not be happier that Kate has agreed to join the AiF board, which will formalize her involvement with the organization. She is not only going to be a great asset in the running of 2017 Heath Ledger Scholarship, but all our career development and education programs and major events in Los Angeles and Australia.”
“Kate Marks will be a great and valuable President for AiF. From her experience at Film Victoria and her current role at Ausfilm, Kate will provide the organization the necessary structure and industry relationships that it needs to move forward with Charlie’s and the new AiF industry program,” Overend continued.