Wildbrain & BBCS alum Deirdre Brennan joins Screen Australia as CEO

Deirdre Brennan

Wildbrain’s COO Deirdre Brennan is leaving the company to head up funding body Screen Australia.

Brennan will become CEO from 8 January and replaces Graeme Mason, who is departing the agency in early November after a decade in the role.

The Wildbrain exec had been with the Canadian kids company since 2020, rising to her most recent role in 2021 having previously been EVP of content partnerships.

Prior to that, Brennan worked at BBC Studios Australia (fka BBC Worldwide Australia) as director of TV, having previously been head of children’s TV at the ABC and general manager of Universal Kids at NBCUniversal.

Screen Australia’s chair, Nicholas Moore, said the appointment “represents a remarkable opportunity to expand our capacity to tell Australian stories and connect with international audiences in new ways.”

Brennan added: I am excited to return to Australia to lead such an important organisation, focusing on building a sustainable future for the creative industry amidst evolving technologies, competitive pressures and expanding platforms. Screen Australia’s mission is very clear and I will strive to be a passionate advocate and partner for our creators, storytellers and emerging talent.”

On Mason’s departure, Moore added: “Since 2013, Graeme has led the agency through a period of rapid change and the sector has been strengthened by his dedication, passion and leadership. On behalf of the Board and the Screen Australia team, I would like to express my profound gratitude to Graeme, and I congratulate him on all that he has achieved.”