QMusic, the peak music industry body for Queensland, has just announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer.
Kristy Ellis has been named permanent CEO following an extensive search that began in May and after serving as Interim CEO since April. Now, she enters the role on a permanent contract.
Ellis takes on the role following a strong competitive process to find the next QMusic CEO. Known for her strategic, commercial and operational experience throughout her tenure as interim CEO, Ellis also has more than two decades of experience in creative industries, as well as sports, major events, and commercial management.
Ellis has spent years working in the performance and events spaces, having previously served as the founder and Director of the CAPA Performance Academy and Think Up Events, while also overseeing choreography and production for the likes of Carols By Starlight and the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols.
Alongside time spent with TEDxBrisbane, FIFA, the Queensland Rugby Union, and more, Ellis has also served as a Board Member for Ballet Theatre Queensland since 2024.
Ellis’ appointment arrived after QMusic Chair Jake Challenor announced in March that CEO Kris Stewart would be departing the top job after almost five years in the role.
“It is a privilege to lead QMusic permanently at such a dynamic time for Queensland music,” Ellis commented in a statement.
She continued, “Over the past several months, working alongside our team, members, and key stakeholders, it has become even clearer how much talent and opportunity exist across our state’s music ecosystem.
“My commitment is to deliver both operational continuity and fresh strategic momentum. I look forward to working closely with the Board, government partners, and industry stakeholders to ensure QMusic continues to advocate fiercely for artists, venues, and music businesses while expanding our commercial and artistic impact nationally and internationally.”
Challenor added, “Kristy has demonstrated exceptional operational focus, fresh thinking, and strong commercial momentum during her time as Interim CEO. She balances deep respect for Queensland’s music sector with the commercial discipline required to build sustainable career and business pathways for our local industry.
“The Board has total confidence in her leadership as QMusic enters its next chapter of growth with ambition and focus. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to extend our thanks to Erica Brush and the team at u&u Recruitment Partners for guiding QMusic through a thorough, transparent, and rigorous search process for our next CEO.”
