In a significant reshuffle, the South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) has announced the appointment of eight new staff members to fill existing vacancies and bolster the implementation of its Strategic Plan 2025-2028. This move marks a pivotal moment for the organization as it seeks to enhance its leadership and operational capabilities.
The appointments include Mags Scholes as production executive (SA led), Neil Rennison as acting game development executive, Jessica Giacco as talent development manager, Astrid Samuel as program systems manager, and Gavin Heard as head of corporate. Additionally, new roles have been created with Carmel Boffa joining as client services coordinator, Yanhui (James) Fu as cleaning and maintenance officer, and Brian Scarce as First Nations programs lead.
Leadership Changes at SAFC
SAFC’s new appointments bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization. Mags Scholes, with over 25 years in agencies, production, and international projects, is expected to drive inclusive talent development and manage high-stakes content delivery. Previously, she was the head of content at Screen Queensland.
Neil Rennison, founder of Tin Man Games, brings a 25-year career in games development and has led the creation of over 60 digital titles. His role as acting game development executive is anticipated to invigorate SAFC’s digital strategy.
Jessica Giacco, with over a decade in creative development and industry programming, previously served as industry programs manager at Screen Producers Australia. Her expertise will be crucial in nurturing emerging talent within SAFC.
Astrid Samuel’s experience in change management and system building, along with her previous roles at Wild Bunch and Odin’s Eye Entertainment, positions her to enhance SAFC’s program systems.
Gavin Heard, an experienced executive with a strong focus on strategy and governance, will steer corporate performance at SAFC. His background includes roles at the National Banking Corporation and the Office for the Commissioner of Public Sector Employment.
Corporate Movements in South Australia
Meanwhile, South Australian software developer Prophecy International Holdings Ltd. is experiencing its own leadership shake-up. CEO Brad Thomas has resigned after eight years with the company, during which he significantly advanced its products and international operations. Ed Reynolds, the current chair, will serve as acting CEO during the search for a new leader.
Additionally, board director Matthew Michalewicz has stepped down to avoid a conflict of interest amid a proposed merger with Complexica, where he serves as CEO. These resignations, coupled with a warning of unexpectedly high customer losses, have led to a 26.09% drop in Prophecy’s shares.
New Appointments Across Various Sectors
GPEx, a provider of clinical and educational services for the primary care sector, has appointed Beth McKenzie as CEO. McKenzie, a Chartered Accountant with extensive experience in strategy and financial management, has been acting CEO since March 2025. Her previous roles include chief financial officer positions at Murray Zircon and Mitsubishi Motors Australia.
In the public sector, Maree Wauchope, CEO of Barunga West Council, has announced her resignation to join SA Housing Trust as executive director of property services. During her tenure, Wauchope spearheaded infrastructure investments and community initiatives.
Public relations agency Belinda Public Relations (BPR) has expanded its team with the addition of Kate Rosman and Chrissie Zikos. Both bring diverse experience in public relations, marketing, and social media management, enhancing BPR’s capacity to deliver impactful campaigns.
Educational and Corporate Developments
Dara School, Australia’s first school dedicated to gifted education, has appointed Tania Allen and Dr. Emma Goodall as co-principals. Allen, a long-serving teacher at Dara, and Goodall, a leader in inclusive education, are expected to build on the school’s strong foundation.
Spacetalk has welcomed John Bird to its board as an independent non-executive director and chair of the Audit & Risk Committee. Bird’s extensive experience in public companies, particularly in financial and strategic direction, will be invaluable as Spacetalk continues its growth, especially in overseas markets.
These leadership changes across various sectors in South Australia signal a dynamic shift in organizational strategies, aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and resilience in an evolving economic landscape.
