QMusic Appoints Kristy Ellis as CEO Following National Executive Search

Queensland’s peak music industry body, QMusic, has today confirmed the permanent appointment of 

Kristy Ellis as Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive national executive search that began in June.

Ellis, who was appointed Interim CEO in April, steps into the role permanently as QMusic drives

sector growth and delivers key industry programs and events, including Industry Connect,

Concert Care, BIGSOUND and the Queensland Music Awards.

The appointment follows a structured, independent recruitment campaign conducted by u&u

Recruitment Partners to identify a long-term leader for Queensland’s contemporary music sector.

Ellis emerged as the successful candidate following a strong competitive process, recognised for

her strategic clarity, commercial capability, and immediate operational impact during her interim

tenure.

Ellis brings over two decades of experience in the creative industries, sports, major events and

commercial management, including previous roles with the AFC Women's Asian Cup,

Queensland Rugby Union (Queensland Reds), TEDxBrisbane, and as a board member for Ballet

Theatre Queensland.

QMusic Chair, Jake Challenor, said: "On behalf of the Board, I would 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.

"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.

"QMusic CEO, Kristy 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."

The Board extends its gratitude to the QMusic team, members, subscribers, and the broader

Queensland music community for their continued support.