Inaugural Chief Executive Officer, Perth Film Studios
SAFC sought a Head of First Nations to lead a transformative cultural agenda across South Australia’s screen and games sectors.
Images courtesy of South Australian Film Corporation, SA
Overview
This role was central to advancing reconciliation, Indigenous storytelling, and sector-wide inclusion. Beyond executive oversight, the leader would drive systemic change, embedding First Nations perspectives into strategy, production, and content development, while nurturing Indigenous talent, building community trust, and shaping national best-practice standards for Indigenous leadership.
The Challenge
The role required a First Nations leader with both cultural authority and executive capability, someone able to influence boards, industry stakeholders, and communities while transforming practices across screen and games. It was a First Nations Identified Position demanding deep cultural knowledge alongside strategic and operational leadership.
Our Approach
EP Australia conducted a culturally informed, merit-based search, engaging First Nations practitioners and cultural leaders nationwide. Our process respected cultural protocols while assessing candidates’ vision for Indigenous storytelling and truth-telling.
Images courtesy of South Australian Film Corporation, SA
Criteria for Success
Success required a candidate who could navigate both executive and community spaces, lead transformative strategies for Indigenous content, and foster sector-wide engagement with First Nations voices.
Outcomes
From 37 exceptional candidates, Kirstie Parker was unanimously endorsed. Her appointment established a benchmark for Indigenous leadership in screen and games. Under her leadership, SAFC has transformed its First Nations strategy, now recognised nationally as a model for reconciliation and sector-wide change. The ongoing success of Kirstie’s placement demonstrates how culturally informed executive search can deliver transformative, impactful and sustainable outcomes.
Meet the Head of First Nations, South Australian Film Corporation
First Nations perspectives matter, especially now. Storytelling and truth-telling uplifts our voices and builds stronger relationships across our lands. Supporting and celebrating First Nations people, cultures, and languages can be transformative and nation-building. I am here for that. Working with Patricia and EP Australia during this search has been a gentle and rewarding experience.
Kirstie Parker, Head of First Nations, SAFC
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