GPAC appoints new CEO

THE Geelong Performing Arts Centre Trust has announced the appointment of Joel McGuinness as the centre’s new chief executive officer.

Following a national search, Mr McGuinness will start at the centre on March 13.

He will replace Michelle Quigley QC, who has been appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria.

A Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) graduate, Mr McGuinness is an experienced arts and culture manager who has worked in metropolitan and regional centres throughout Australia.

As general manager of the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, he oversaw its successful $12.5 million redevelopment.

He also spent four years in Brisbane and worked for companies including Circa and Brisbane Festival.

Most recently, Mr McGuinness founded arts management consultancy, JAM Creative, which assisted many arts organisations and venues across Western Australia.

He has also held numerous industry board positions, including vice chair of the Australian Performing Arts Centres Association.

“I am thrilled to be moving to Geelong Performing Arts Centre at such an exciting time for the centre and look forward to becoming part of the community, living and working in Geelong,” Mr McGuiness said.

“I am keen to start working with the Trust, staff and the whole community to deliver great outcomes for Geelong, the G21 Region and the broader arts sector in Victoria and nationally.”

Geelong Performing Arts Centre Trust interim chair Professor Jane den Hollander said she was delighted to welcome Mr McGuinness to Geelong.

“Joel has worked extensively in Australia’s arts and cultural sector both in capital cities and in regional areas. He understands the important role the arts and creative industries can play in shaping and transforming communities and will bring a wealth of experience and ideas to GPAC and the region.”