Sam Strong to join Creative Victoria as Executive Director - Creative Industries

Creative Victoria has welcomed Sam Strong who commenced in the role of Executive Director, Creative Industries on 8th November. As Executive Director - Creative Industries, Strong will lead the branch responsible for Creative Victoria’s investment in the non-government arts and cultural sector, First Peoples arts and creative practice, and the screen, contemporary music and design industries. He will also be responsible for strategy development, research and international engagement.

This includes oversight of Creative Victoria’s suite of funding programs and initiatives, and the delivery of the Creative State 2025 strategy.

Strong has been the Chief Executive, co-Chief Executive and Chair of leading arts organisations across the country. His previous positions include Artistic Director of Queensland Theatre and Griffin Theatre Company; Chair of Melbourne Fringe and Circa; and Associate Artistic Director of the Melbourne Theatre Company.

An award-winning theatre director, Strong has directed productions for all Australian state theatre companies, Belvoir, Griffin and the Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane Festivals. He has also long championed new Australian works.

Looking forward to his new role Strong advised “there couldn’t be a more crucial time as we chart a course through and beyond COVID-19. I’ve seen first-hand how the sector that contributes so much to the cultural, social and economic life of the state has been the hardest hit.

“Yet Victoria remains the preeminent creative state, from its independent artists through to its major organisations and agencies.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my industry and creative experience to bear on reopening, recovery and ultimately realising the vision of Creative State 2025. I can’t wait to get started.”

Creative Victoria has also advised that on 3rd December, they will bid a very fond farewell to Linda Fleet, their highly valued and respected Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications. Fleet has made an extraordinary contribution to Creative Victoria and to the sector over the past 15 years. Creative Victoria also announced the appointment of Lainie Kluska as incoming Communications, Media and Marketing Director. Kluska is already well known to many in the sector in her current role as Senior Manager, Communications.