QMusic has appointed Kristy Ellis as its permanent Chief Executive Officer, following a national search to find a long-term leader for Queensland’s contemporary music industry.
Ellis had been serving as QMusic’s interim CEO since April, stepping into the position after the departure of former CEO Kris Stewart. Her permanent appointment means she will now lead the organisation’s major programs and events, including BIGSOUND, Industry Connect, Concert Care and the Queensland Music Awards.
The recruitment process began in May and was managed by u&u Recruitment Partners. According to QMusic, Ellis stood out during the selection process for her operational leadership, commercial experience and strategic approach during her interim tenure.
Ellis comes to the permanent role with more than two decades of experience spanning the creative industries, sport, major events and commercial management.
Her previous positions have included work with the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Queensland Rugby Union and TEDxBrisbane. She has also served as a board member of Ballet Theatre Queensland, adding governance experience to her background.
QMusic Chair Jake Challenor praised Ellis’s performance during her time as interim CEO, pointing to her operational focus, fresh thinking and commercial momentum.
The organisation said her ability to understand the needs of Queensland’s music community while maintaining a strong commercial focus will be important as QMusic works to create sustainable opportunities for artists, venues and music businesses.
For Ellis, the permanent appointment comes during a period of significant activity for Queensland’s music sector. QMusic plays an important role in supporting artists and music businesses while also advocating for the broader industry.
BIGSOUND, one of Australia’s best-known music industry events, remains one of QMusic’s most prominent annual programs. The event brings together artists, industry professionals, labels, media and international delegates, making QMusic’s leadership particularly significant for emerging Australian talent.
Ellis said she plans to maintain continuity while also bringing new strategic momentum to the organisation. She also highlighted the importance of working with government partners, artists, venues and other industry stakeholders.
One interesting aspect of Ellis’s appointment is that her career has not been limited to the music business. Her experience across sport, events, creative organisations and commercial management gives her a broader understanding of how large-scale cultural and entertainment projects operate.
That mix could prove useful for QMusic as the organisation looks beyond traditional industry support and seeks to expand Queensland music’s commercial and international reach.
