LFC BID TO MAKE U-TURN WITH HAYES

THE LONDON Film Commission (LFC) have appointed Sue Hayes as their Commissioner in a bid turn around the mixed fortunes of the LFC.
The new post has arisen following the LFC’s narrow escape from closure earlier this year due to financial problems and a cash injection from The Film Council.
Hayes said: “We are here to help with the core activities of the industry, advising and aiding in all aspects. After 18 turbulent months we are keen to get back to the core. Primarily, I will be putting out what the Commission can do for people in this industry. As well as offering a different perspective to the Commission, trying to look at areas like efficiency. At the moment I am on a learning curve and keen to get started.”
Earlier this year the LFC’s staffing levels were slashed in a bid to survive the financial crisis. Chairman David Potter and Chief Executive Dominic Reid resigned after failing to secure additional funding.
However, the Film Council gave £150,000 funding to the LFC for this financial year, since then the LFC have been working to re-establish sponsorship over the past months in a bid to stabilize their financial position.
The Commission have also appointed Graham Anderson Managing Director of Arri Media Film Services to their Board of Directors. In June of this year Brian Yell, the UK-based Executive Vice President for International Operations at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer was appointed Chairman following the overhaul.
Yell said: “Sue Hayes brings with her a wealth of ‘on the ground’ experience and commercial expertise that will help to move the Commission forward into the next phase of its development.”
Hayes worked as a documentary Producer in the UK and the US and is a former Director of the Edinburgh International Television Festival.
Hayes takes over from Christabel Albrey who previously oversaw the duties of Commissioner.