Arts administrator and drama graduate Alex Reid has been appointed the new Executive Director of Arts SA.

Ms Reid brings 16 years of experience in the arts sector to the role including 11 years in Country Arts SA and three years in senior strategy and policy roles in Arts SA.

Chief Executive of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Chris Eccles says her passion for developing the arts and cultural sector in South Australia made her the obvious choice for the position.

“Ms Reid’s knowledge, networks and boundless energy mean the arts sector in this state is in great hands,” said Mr Eccles.

“I have no doubt she will continue Arts SA’s proud tradition of supporting and guiding creative practice and cultural development in this state“.

Ms Reid’s achievements include implementing a national grants management system across Australia and developing the new Adelaide Film and Screen Centre at Glenside.

She has served on various boards including the Australia Council for the Arts’ Community Cultural Development Board and as chair of the Community Arts Network of Australia.

Ms Reid said the position of Executive Director of Arts SA is one of the most exciting and unique jobs in Australia.

“South Australia offers an arts environment with great stability and tradition, internationally recognised arts festivals and events, and artists and companies whose work is amongst the most creative and daring in the country.”

“It’s no surprise that we have a reputation for best practice,” she said.

“This job is a fantastic opportunity to highlight and further develop our state’s reputation as a place that thrives on creativity and imaginative thinking.”

Ms Reid’s appointment follows that of former head of Arts SA Greg Mackie who last month accepted the position of Deputy Chief Executive Cultural Development and Corporate in the Department of the Premier and Cabinet.