Film Agency News
18 th July 2012
Michael Gubbins named as Chairman of Film Agency for Wales
Film consultant and journalist Michael Gubbins has been named as the new Chairman of the Film Agency for Wales. He replaces Peter Edwards whose term ends this summer.
Gubbins, 47, is the former editor of Screen International (2004-2009) and is now best known for his work on digital change in film and other media. He is also the former editor of Music Week, and business technology journal Computing.
His consultancy company, MCG Film and Media, has produced influential strategic reports for film agencies and public bodies around Europe, covering all aspects of the industry from production to exhibition. Clients have included Cine Regio, Europa Cinemas, the Swedish Film Institute, UK Film Council, Power to the Pixel and the European Think Tank.
Gubbins also chairs major conferences and events around the world, particularly those focused on the changing film business. Recent work includes the EU Competencies In Culture conference in Warsaw, the Danish Film Institute, Europa Cinemas, Europa Distribution, and events at the Cannes, Berlin, London, Edinburgh and Rotterdam film festivals.
During his 25-year career in newspapers and magazines, he was news editor of the South Wales Evening Post in Swansea, one of a number of connections to Wales.
He also directed a short film in Cardiff, as part of the prestigious Fuji Film Scholarship scheme, and was a student at the University of Glamorgan.
Gubbins said it was an honour and a responsibility to accept the role at a time of great change in the film industry.
He said the strength of the Film Agency of Wales was testament to the work of outgoing Chairman Peter Edwards.
“The passion, commitment and exceptional leadership of Peter have helped build an organisation of national and international importance. That legacy can be seen in the talent that has been discovered and nurtured in Wales and in the building of strong organisational foundations, which will be so essential in the exciting and challenging times ahead for film in Wales.
“The Film Agency of Wales has also been a leader in promoting film in schools, while at the same time keeping an international focus in an increasingly globalised market. The agency has made a strong impact in social, cultural and commercial terms and it is vital that this sense of purpose and direction continues.
“I am looking forward to working with the chief executive Pauline Burt and the excellent team at FAW, and with the other members of an experienced board, in ensuring that film in Wales makes its mark at home on the international stage.”
Commenting on the appointment, Peter Edwards said: “ Michael has an international reputation for his work in film: chairing major conferences, think tanks and workshops around the world; helping formulate public policy and business strategy; and writing influential reports read at the highest levels. His work has covered all aspects of film and policy, from talent development and finance, production, sales and export and all forms of distribution and exhibition. He has particular expertise in digital and cross-media change and also brings knowledge of television, music and publishing.”
“This is a time of great importance for the Welsh film sector with new opportunities arising through increased lottery funding post-Olympics; newly defined strategic priorities from the BFI; and significant on-going change to business models, with increased digital uptake. The Film Agency for Wales is at the centre of those discussions, working on behalf of filmmakers, cinemas, festivals, film education practitioners and most importantly, the Welsh public. We want to deliver a diverse range of high quality films, made with Welsh talent, benefiting Welsh companies, to a growing audience at home and internationally.”
Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales, said: “The Film Agency for Wales has a close and important partnership with the Arts Council, and we value the work that the Agency does to promote the development of film activity in Wales. We thank Peter Edwards for his many years of service to the Film Agency and look forward to working with Mike Gubbins as he takes the helm.”
Sally Griffiths, Head of Cinema at Chapter Arts Centre adds: "Michael's appointment is a really exciting for film culture in Wales and how we are viewed internationally. He has a keen awareness of the issues faced by the diverse film exhibition sector existing in Wales and the great many opportunities that exist. I look forward to the continuing development of a vibrant and relevant film culture in Wales and the new perspectives that Michael will bring to that for producers, directors and exhibitors alike."
Kate Crowther, film producer says: "I'm delighted to welcome Mike Gubbins as Chair of the FAW board. Mike brings a wealth of talent and experience which will be invaluable to welsh film makers going forward. In particular, his expertise in distribution and the digital revolution will be vital to the Welsh film industry’s continued progress within the international market."
