It is with regret that Open Channel announces the resignation of Business Director Graeme Wright, who departs to move back into mainstream production.
Graeme came to Open Channel in 2006 at a time when the organisation was still ‘finding its feet’ at its new Docklands location. Under Graeme’s leadership and superb business acumen, Open Channel moved into a period of consolidation and growth, exemplified by the expansion in training with the implementation of new editing suites and the development of the new Production Advisory Service. As a creative precinct and event venue Shed 4 has also gone from strength to strength. Graeme oversaw Open Channel’s major Launch event in July 2007, as well as the appointment of new Executive Producer Gai Dunlop, and the re-establishment of Open Channel’s production arm.
According to Graeme, ‘Working at Open Channel has been both rewarding and challenging. It has been great to work for an organisation that has helped and continues to help so many people in the emerging film sector.’
Graeme began his film and television career at Crawford Productions, thereafter freelancing as a production accountant on feature films and television productions. In the 1980s he worked for Film Victoria as manager of the Production Liaison Division and Melbourne Film Office. He spent 14 years with Artist Services and Granada Productions, working in management and financial roles on shows including Tonight Live, Fast Forward, Full Frontal, the AFI Awards, World Comedy Tour and The Eric Bana Show. Graeme’s other film and television credits, in various production and finance roles, include The Sullivans, The Flying Doctors, Women of the Sun, and Waterfront.
Prior to Open Channel, Graeme worked in a key financial /management role on the Opening/Closing Ceremonies of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Chairperson Leslie Wood states: ‘Open Channel will always be indebted to Graeme for his unfailing commitment and dedication to the careers of emerging filmmakers. On behalf of the Board and staff, I wish Graeme the best of luck in his future endeavours.’
Graeme’s last day will be April 24.
[release from Open Channel]