Outgoing chairperson Chris Gotz, says, "Alas, my time has come to an end. It has been interesting, exciting, instructive, fractious, inspiring and, for the most part, generally pretty cool. My tenure has coincided with a time of great change for our industry and everyone in it, especially us creative folk.
"We are in the middle of a revolution in tech and media that is completely changing the way we tell our stories and it has been part of my mission to create a culture that reflects that. Our digital Creative Circle Award category grows ever stronger, as does the rest of the work we are producing as a country. We are seeing these new influences at play in virtually all the disciplines, digital is at the centre of some of our best print, film, radio and outdoor work.
"I would just like to say huge congrats and good luck to the incoming chairperson, Justin Gomes, a man who will probably get more done than me, with less fuss and certainly without pissing off every journalist in the country. He has been a big hitter in our industry for some time now and his leadership and guidance will be invaluable in these changing and challenging times."
Incoming chairperson, Justin Gomes adds, "It is an exciting time to be a part of the industry with the shifting landscapes. While it is safe to say we will always be creatively competitive in the more traditional spaces, the biggest challenge we face now is narrowing the gap between ourselves and the rest of the world in the integrated and digital space.
"I am keen to raise the profile of the Creative Circle and make sure we remain more relevant than ever during this time of change. The industry will be able to follow us on Twitter (@CCircle2014) with updates on Creative Circle initiatives, intern programs, industry seminars, international jury appointments and the like. The bad news is there is a 10% increase in Creative Circle subscription fees, but it is the first increase in six years.
"I'm fortunate to be inheriting the majority of Chris's Exco with one new addition in Alistair King. Here's to a great 2014 and beyond."
