Screen Australia appoints Adrian Coates as Director of Strategy & Insights

Screen Australia is excited to announce the appointment of Adrian Coates as Director of Strategy & Insights. A strategic leader driving transformational change across Australia’s media and cultural sectors, Adrian brings specialist experience in research and insights, policy and stakeholder engagement.

Screen Australia Director of Strategy and Insights Adrian Coates. 

In his new role at Screen Australia, Adrian will oversee the development, implementation and project management of Screen Australia’s strategy, research and government relations priorities. His appointment follows the recent launch of Screen Australia’s new Corporate Plan which includes the key pillar Empower, designed to equip the industry with insights and resources to stay ahead in a dynamic market.

Adrian most recently served as Senior Engagement Manager at Strategic Project Partners where he led complex strategic initiatives for federal and state government agencies, financial services and FMCG. In his previous role as Head of Audience Data and Insights at SBS, he integrated traditional media analysis with emerging data capabilities, enhancing SBS’s research function to drive decision-making across content and corporate strategy.

Adrian Coates said, “I am thrilled to be joining Screen Australia at a time when the industry is being fundamentally transformed. I’m looking forward to working with the team to equip the industry with strategic insights and help Australian stories thrive in this evolving landscape.” 

Screen Australia CEO Deirdre Brennan said, “Adrian brings a deep understanding of Australia’s screen sector and the vital role of insights in shaping organisational impact. Data-driven, outcome-focussed decision making is one of our key operational principals and I’m excited to work with Adrian to empower the screen sector now and in the future.”

Adrian will start his role at Screen Australia on 27 October 2025 and will be based in the Sydney Office.