Published 14 NOVEMBER 2016

The Board of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) will conduct an international search for a new CEO to lead the unique national cultural institution.

This follows the resignation of CEO Michael Loebenstein, who will next year take an appointment to a cultural institution in his native Austria. Mr Loebenstein, who will leave the NFSA in January, has been with the organisation for the past five years.

‘Michael has led the NFSA during a time when we have made a giant leap forward towards our goal to become leader in the digital environment, and an engaging place for encounters with our amazing and diverse film and sound history,’ NFSA Chair, Gabrielle Trainor, said today.

‘His time with us was marked by a significant reinvention of the NFSA into a more outwardly focussed, collaborative institution which continues to collect, preserve, and more broadly share our film and sound treasures.

‘Producing high quality digitised versions of classic films such as Storm Boy and Proof, artistic collaborations with musicians like Gotye, supporting Indigenous communities such as the Martu people preserve their cultural heritage, and placing the NFSA at the forefront of thinking about the challenges of digitising cultural materials, have been some of the many highlights of Michael’s tenure as CEO,’ she said.

‘Despite a challenging financial environment and the need to do more with less, the NFSA is in very good shape with highly skilled staff and a clear strategic direction. Our new media-rich website, launched today, further showcases our commitment to sharing our collection with Australians and the world.

‘We wish Michael well in his new role as Director of the Austrian Film Museum, where he previously worked.’

Michael Loebenstein said: ‘It has been a privilege to have been CEO of the NFSA. Awareness of what we do has not been higher since the legendary Last Film Search of the 1980s. I am proud of our achievements and grateful to the fantastic team of professionals at the NFSA, and for the support of a committed and engaged Board.’

Challis & Company has been engaged to conduct the search. http://www.challis.co

Media Enquiries: Miguel Gonzalez P: (02) 8202 0114 or 0404 281 632, miguel.gonzalez@nfsa.gov.au

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