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QMusic Announces Appointment Of Kristy Ellis As Interim CEO

Tyler Jenke

Kristy Ellis' appointment as Interim CEO comes following last month's announcement that Kris Stewart would be departing the top job after almost five years in the role.

Kristy Ellis
Kristy Ellis(Credit: Supplied)

QMusic have announced that Kristy Ellis will serve as the organisation’s Interim CEO, sharing the news in an email to members this afternoon.

Ellis’ tenure as Interim CEO will officially begin on Monday, April 20th, with QMusic Board Chair Jake Challenor recognising Ellis’ contributions to the world of music alongside the announcement.

“Kristy brings over 20 years’ experience across major events, the creative industries, and commercial sectors, and is recognised for guiding organisations through periods of growth and change,” Challenor said.

“She has delivered large-scale programs in complex stakeholder environments and will lead QMusic while the Board undertakes an independent, third-party recruitment process to appoint a permanent CEO.

“This process will be structured, transparent and focused on securing the best long-term leader for the organisation.”

Indeed, 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 new appointment comes after Challenor announced late last month that CEO Kris Stewart would be departing the top job after almost five years in the role.

“Over the past five years, Kris has played a central role in transforming QMusic into a stronger, more sustainable and more influential organisation,” Challenor said in a statement. “With the organisation in a position of strength, now is the right time to hand over to a new leader to guide QMusic through its next chapter.

“As QMusic transitions to a CLBG, this marks an important step in the organisation’s evolution – strengthening governance, improving flexibility, and aligning operations with best practice in service of Queensland artists and the industry.”

In his own statement, Stewart noted he felt the time was right to embark upon the next challenge in his career, and for QMusic to introduce new leadership.

“The past five years have been some of the most exciting of my career, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the chance to work with my peers in the music industry and the team here at QMusic,” Stewart said.

“While sad that I'm finishing, I'm proud of everything I've achieved and leave knowing the organisation has never been stronger.”

Further information relating to the role of CEO at QMusic, and who will serve as the organisation’s official successor to Stewart, are expected in the coming weeks.