QMusic Confirms Kristy Ellis as New CEO

BRISBANE, Australia — The search is over. Kristy Ellis is the new CEO of QMusic.

Ellis, who was appointed interim CEO of the trade body in April, steps into the position on a permanent basis, following a nationwide recruitment process.

Moving forward, Ellis will oversee the association as it drives sector growth and delivers key industry programs and events, which include the BIGSOUND summit and showcase event and the Queensland Music Awards (QMAs).

Ellis boasts more than two decades’ experience in the creative industries, sports, major events and commercial management, with previous role at AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Queensland Rugby Union (Queensland Reds), TEDxBrisbane, and as a board member for Ballet Theatre Queensland.

“It is a privilege to lead QMusic permanently at such a dynamic time for Queensland music,” she comments in a statement, issued Monday morning (Aug. 24) local time. “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.”

Ellis succeeds Kris Stewart, who stepped down from the top job at QMusic in April after five years in the role.

The Queensland contemporary music community and its trade body are in a unique situation, with a golden opportunity at stake. Brisbane is the host city for the 2032 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, a moment that will cast a spotlight so bright that the state’s musicians ought to benefit.

“Kristy has demonstrated exceptional operational focus, fresh thinking, and strong commercial momentum during her time as interim CEO,” comments QMusic chair Jake Challenor.

“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.

“On behalf of the board, I would also 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.”