NI Film Commission appoint new Chief Executive

The Northern Ireland Film and Television Commission (NIFTC) has announced the appointment of Richard Williams as its new Chief Executive.

Mr Williams is to succeed Richard Taylor, who retires in May.

NIFTC Chairman Colin Anderson said: “Although the Commission are sorry to lose Richard Taylor, we are delighted that Richard Williams is joining us as our new Chief Executive.

"The outlook for the film and television industry is both challenging and exciting in Northern Ireland and I am convinced that this employment sector, with its dynamic potential, will develop fully under Richard’s guidance.”

Richard Williams has been with Holywood independent production company Brian Waddell Productions since 1995, most recently as Executive Producer.

Mr Williams’ television credits include: 'Chasing Time In…'; the recent hit series for National Geographic International; 'Divine Interventions' for Channel 4’s Witness strand; 'Student Life' and 'The Right Move' for BBC NI. He also has experience as a Development Producer on a number of film and television drama projects, including 'Stranger' for BBC NI drama, 'The Representative' and 'The Power Stone', both supported in development by the NIFTC.

Mr Williams was the Northern Ireland representative for Pact, the UK producers’ trade association, from 1999 to 2001.

(GB)