Regional Screen Agency, Vision+Media today announced a series of changes to integrate its regional operation in to the new national agency which is set to formally launch on 1st October.

Paul Taylor steps down as Chief Executive at the end of September, as Creative England appoints a national CEO, but will remain as a non-executive director on a streamlined Board chaired by Mike Davis. He will also continue to work with the Creative England Board and management in an advisory capacity.

Kaye Elliott, currently Director of Inward Investment will take on the new role of Executive Director for Vision+Media. ??The company will continue to deliver its current regional and local contracts, including those with the NWDA, ERDF, Manchester Authorities and Bolton University.

Creative England will take over delivery of regional film support funded by the BFI from 1st October.

Vision+Media and Creative England will be co-located in the company’s MediaCityUK offices and will share overhead and support services as well as working together on future strategy for local support for the wider creative industries.
Over the next twelve months, a new regional advisory panel will also be formed, which will provide a strategic industry focussed link between the local needs and opportunities and the Creative England board.

“As with any major restructuring, it has been a difficult six months or so”, says Taylor who has overseen the company’s transition so far from a standalone company to part of a new integrated national agency. “The starting point was obviously political changes then cost savings, but we tried throughout to ensure that in creating a new rational structure across the country, which makes sense, we don’t lose our local focus, or the legacy and assets which Vision+Media has built up. I think this partnership approach is the best way to deliver that.”

Kaye Elliott continued, “Utilising some of Vision+Media’s assets to benefit the digital and creative industry in the region will allow us to work closer with Creative England, whilst fulfilling our obligations to the Northwest.

We have a rich seam of creative talent here that is constantly evolving. We have some of the most exciting, enterprising individuals and companies alongside MediaCityUK, established broadcasters and organisations. Our number one priority is to ensure that as Creative England develops, the legacy and work of Vision+Media is embedded into their policies and foundations, and the spotlight remains firmly on the region.” 

Chairman designate Mike Davis said ‘I would like to thank the whole team at Vision+Media, including my predecessor Steve Morrison and the Board, for making such a successful transition, creating a rich legacy for the digital and creative industries in the region and for the commitment to making Creative England a success in the future’