Emma Batchelor ACTW interim Chair
ACT Writers are delighted to welcome Canberra author, creative and experienced corporate governance professional, Emma Batchelor, as its interim chair.
While Emma is well known to the writing and arts community – most notably as recipient of the 2021 Australian/Vogel literary award for her work Now that I see you (Allen & Unwin 2021) – she has a professional background in the not-for-profit sector, with extensive experience in financial management, community engagement and operations.
“I have been a proud member of ACT Writers and I’m both excited and honoured to fill this position,” Emma said.
“In the interim Chair position, I will represent the ACT Writers’ values and will model inclusivity, sound governance, and ambitious practice,” Emma said.
“I’m excited to focus on supporting emerging and professional writers to create new, innovative work and for ACT Writers to continue to initiate and deliver cutting-edge creative programs.”
Emma will be supported in the new role by ACT Writers’ experienced Deputy Chair, former ABC broadcaster, Alex Sloan.
“In Emma we have an artist from a contemporary dance and performance background who has evolved and excelled in literature, parallel to her work in the not-for-profit space.” ACTW CEO, Meg Wilson, said.
“We couldn’t be happier to be able to draw on her leadership skills and experience. This is a strong and exciting appointment for the continued sound governance of ACT Writers, as well as representing a wonderful example of the cross-pollination we love to see strengthen the arts ecology of the ACT.”
Emma steps into the role as outgoing Chair, Sophie Mannix, bids farewell to a long and committed association with ACT Writers.
“Sophie has given years of dedication to ACT Writers since she started working with us in 2014, before joining the Board in 2019 and being appointed Chair in 2020,” Meg said.
“She has devoted immense time and energy to the organisation, creating and fostering opportunities for writers at all stages. Her passion and enthusiasm will be greatly missed. We wish her all the best in her career in the book industry and her ongoing role with Text Publishing.”
Emma Batchelor
Emma Batchelor is a writer and author from Canberra with a professional background in corporate responsibility. In May, 2021 her first novel ‘Now that I see you’ won the Australian/Vogel Literary Award. From 2016-2019 she edited and wrote for online publication Leiden, and in 2017 published ‘Building a Conscious Wardrobe (and other fun things)’ a book championing conscious consumerism. She was also a board member with Canberra Dance Theatre. Emma has worked with the Australasian Centre for Corporate Engagement focused on shareholder engagement and finance and operations. Emma holds a Bachelor of Medical Science (Hons) from the Australian National University.
