Written by Kianna Best on Jun 27, 2023. Posted in General Interest

Screen Queensland announces new head of content

Tanya Ellen has been announced as Screen Queensland’s newest head of content, taking over from former head Mags Scholes. With past creative and commercial experience, Ellen will lead development and funding programmes, increasing the number and diversity of local projects and encouraging growth in he Queensland screen business. The new head of content is set to start 3 July 2023.

“Tanya’s extensive experience across screen production, including her legal and academic practice, equip her with a unique skillset to support the sector across Queensland to be robust, resilient and ready to take advantage of sustained growth in local production,” Dr Burns said

Image courtesy of Screen Queensland

Ellen’s multidimensional career has equipped her with a variation of perspectives, working as a creative producer across panel, reality, news and morning shows, leading to recognition from Screen Producers Australia’s Ones to Watch programme ten years ago. Ellen also worked as a practicing lawyer, advising multimillion dollar Australian and international productions.

“Screen Queensland has a reputation for being progressive while championing Australian storytellers,” commented Ellen. “The industry levers are ever-changing — with increased local production in Queensland presenting challenges and opportunities that require fresh thinking and flexibility. The Head of Content position is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the agency’s work to foster homegrown talent and stories within this evolving landscape.”

After working for a not-for-profit organisation established by the United Nations post graduating with her MBA, Ellen gained experience working in the area of sustainability and adaptation, now well versed in environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) and how it is shaping the screen sector locally and abroad. Coming into the position, Ellen will aim to bring her knowledge of ESG and embedding it into project delivery.