Chris Keely.
Chris Keely, general manager of SBS’s networks SBS Food and World Movies, has been appointed executive director of Create NSW.
Keely will start on December 16, taking over from Elizabeth W. Scott, the former executive director, investment and engagement, who left the agency in September after a restructure.
Grainne Brunsdon, CEO of Screen NSW, will report to Keely, who spent nearly eight years at SBS, initially as general manager of subscription TV.
Previously, he served as president distribution, South-East Asia and greater China, for Viacom International Media Networks, and MD and GM for VIMN New Zealand.
He also worked as an adviser to the federal Communications minister, where he led the development of Australia’s first cultural policy, Creative Nation, and as GM of business affairs at Optus TV.
Kate Foy, deputy secretary, community engagement, said: “I am thrilled to have someone of Mr Keely’s calibre and experience joining the executive team and heading up Create NSW to deliver our vision for bold and exciting arts and culture across the state.”
An SBS rep tells IF there are no plans currently to recruit for the role occupied by Keely, noting: “The portfolio will be incorporated into the overall programming structure.”