Screen Producers Australia appoints Chris Keely as COO

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) has appointed Chris Keely as chief operating officer.

Keely joins the organisation with executive experience across media, telecommunications, law and government. As COO, he will oversee SPA's operations, finance, people and organisational performance.

SPA CEO Matthew Deaner said Keely would strengthen the organisation's leadership team.

"Chris brings an exceptional combination of executive leadership, media expertise and public policy experience. His proven track record of leading organisations through change, strengthening operational performance and delivering strategic outcomes will be an enormous asset to SPA.

"As Chief Operating Officer, Chris will help ensure SPA continues to evolve as a strong, member-focused organisation, delivering excellent services while supporting the long-term success of Australia's independent screen production sector. We're delighted to welcome him to the team."

Keely has held senior executive roles across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore in the media, telecommunications, legal and government sectors.

He previously served as Executive Director of Create NSW, where he oversaw the organisation's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the delivery of support for the arts and screen industries.

Most recently, he was deputy director of a national not-for-profit organisation focused on LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.

Keely said he was looking forward to joining SPA.

"I'm delighted to be joining SPA. I look forward to working with the team to strengthen our organisational capability, enhance the services we provide to members, and ensure initiatives such as SCREEN FOREVER continue to evolve and deliver exceptional value for our members, partners and the broader screen community."