Kate Marks
Ausfilm has named Kate Marks as CEO after she has been acting in the post since the departure of Debra Richards at the end of August.
Marks will continue in her role as the organisation’s Los Angeles-based vice president, international production, until she returns early next year to lead the team of seven at Ausfilm’s Sydney headquarters at Fox Studios Australia.
“Ausfilm is a very effective organisation that represents both government and industry; with this successful and supportive partnership, it has achieved a great deal for its membership and the screen sector and this is due to the strong, knowledgable and expert team driving it,” said Ausfilm chair Sam Mostyn.
“Kate’s appointment follows a strategic succession plan developed by the Ausfilm board that has facilitated a smooth transition from her role in the LA market back into Australia, following the departure of Debra Richards.”
Richards has joined Netflix as director, production policy, for Asia Pacific.
Marks said: “Australia has a fantastic story to tell the global screen market and we have an innovative and highly creative screen sector to back it up. I’m leading one of the most dynamic and committed teams in our industry to drive more production to Australia, create jobs for Australians and our industry and investment into Australian businessess.”
Noting the benefits of the Federal Government’s $140 million Location Incentive fund, Marks added: “Australia is in a unique position to capitalise on the increased interest from global markets. I’m energised and excited to lead the organisation.”
Marks will look to hire a successor in the LA post. Projects secured for Australia since her LA appointment five years ago include Marvel Studios’ Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings; Thor: Love & Thunder; Dora and the Lost City of Gold; Monster Problems; Godzilla vs. Kong; The Whistleblower; Alien: Covenant; Thor: Ragnarok; Pacific Rim Uprising; Kong Skull Island; Bleeding Steel and The Shallows; plus the TV series Shantaram, Reef Break, season 4 of Preacher and season 3 of The Leftovers.
Prior to Ausfilm, Marks was Film Victoria’s general manager, incentives, locations and production services.