Kim Williams is a close fit to replace Brian Johns on the board of Australia's Copyright Agency.
Johns chaired the not-for-profit rights organisation's cultural fund which has given $15.7 million to writing and arts sectors, while Williams - a former chief executive News Limited (now News Corp Australia) - has led Musica Viva Australia, the Australian Film Commission and the Sydney Opera House Trust. He is also a former chief executive of Foxtel.
Copyright Agency's chairman Sandy Grant says Williams' "expertise and empathy" for the creative industries will deliver real benefits to members, with his knowledge and strategic input complementing the board's current strengths. "Kim will be able to provide insight and thought-leadership on digital media that will prove invaluable," he says.
He thanked former media executive Johns for a 13-year commitment to the agency including six years as chairman. "Brian played a significant role in every aspect of the business and has been one of the single greatest contributors to the Copyright Agency's success in our 40 year history.
"In addition, he chaired and championed the Copyright Agency's Cultural Fund which to date has provided $15.7m to Australia's writing and arts sectors."
Part of his legacy is the Reading Australia website - www.readingaustralia.com.au - which presents Australian literature to educators.