Following an extensive national recruitment process, former Unions WA Secretary, Owen Whittle, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of West Australian Music (WAM). Owen’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the organisation, which has recently secured significant government funding and unveiled a comprehensive new strategy to revitalise and strengthen its role in supporting the Western Australian music industry.
The $500,000 annual funding, secured through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, will support WAM’s ambitious plans to build capacity and deliver meaningful, large-scale impact across the sector. WAM’s renewed focus is to position itself as a “fit for purpose” organisation, aligned to the evolving needs of the industry.
In making the announcement, WAM Board President Al Taylor said: “We couldn’t be more excited to have secured someone of Owen’s calibre to lead WAM into this new phase. His proven track record of driving organisational change and advocating for industry and members positioned him as the ideal person to oversee WAM’s evolution and deliver meaningful outcomes for the Western Australian music industry – an industry that has been struggling to rebound after a very challenging few years.”
Owen Whittle, known for his work as a strong advocate for social justice and workers’ rights, brings a wealth of experience in leading member-driven organisations and achieving transformative results. His extensive background in spearheading successful campaigns on gender equality, workplace safety reforms, and public sector wage policies will now be channelled into supporting and advancing the Western Australian music industry.
“WAM is an institution in WA. It rightfully should be at the forefront of responding to the challenges facing artists and the industry. I look forward to my first order of business – getting out and about to engage with the industry and put the future of the WA music industry firmly front and centre in people’s minds” Mr Whittle said.
“It is clear there is much to do. Ultimately, what draws me to the role is to represent the sector, lift WAM’s profile with Government and the community and get wins on the board.
“WAM is setting off on a new strategic vision. The Board has outlined significant ambition and leadership and there couldn’t be a more exciting time to meet these challenges head on. I can’t wait to get out there, listen to industry and deliver results.”
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