QMusic, the Queensland-based music industry development association, has appointed Kristy Ellis as its permanent chief executive officer.
Ellis had held the role on an interim basis since April and was selected after a nationwide search.
Leadership transition
The not-for-profit body oversees the BIGSOUND summit and the Queensland Music Awards (QMAs).
Ellis succeeds Kris Stewart, who departed in April after five years as CEO.
Ellis’s background
Her prior experience spans several areas of entertainment and sport, including:
- AFC Women’s Asian Cup
- Queensland Rugby Union (Queensland Reds)
- TEDxBrisbane
- Board member, Ballet Theatre Queensland
Strategic focus
Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, is set to host the 2032 Olympic Games, a development that presents a potential global platform for the local music scene.
Ellis said: “It is a privilege to lead QMusic permanently at such a dynamic time for Queensland music. 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.”
QMusic Chair Jake Challenor said: “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 careers 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.”
