Kathy Keele has announced she will be stepping down from her position as Chief Executive Officer of the Australia Council at the end of the year.

 

Chairman Rupert Myer thanked Ms Keele for her dedicated work for the funding advisory agency and paid tribute to her unwavering dedication to the arts.

 

“Kathy leaves a responsive and highly capable organization. She has ensured that the Council is steadfastly committed to supporting Australian artists, companies and creativity across our nation, our region and beyond, and is at the forefront of research into the value of the arts,” Mr Myer said.

 

Ms Keele described her time at the head of the Council as an honour and privilege.

 

“It has been inspiring and immensely satisfying to work closely with artists, arts professionals, the business and wider communities to support the making and appreciation of great art,” Ms Keele said.

“I am grateful to current Chairman, Mr. Rupert Myer and previous Chair, Mr. James Strong, who have supported me and ensured that the Australia Council continues to be deeply engaged with the arts sector and the Australian public.”

 

Mr. Myer said the Council will now commence the search for a new CEO.

He also announced that Ms Libby Christie will act as CEO from January 2013. Ms. Christie is currently Executive Director of Arts Funding at the Australia Council. She is an experienced business and arts leader and was previously Managing Director of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.