EMC names advisory board for ‘period of reimagining and building resilience’

Hardware Corporation Director Richie McNeill, consultant Paul Mason and journalist Emily Nicol are among the familiar faces tapped for EMC’s advisory board, which is tasked with helping shape the organisation’s roadmap.

Unveiled Thursday, the advisory board is chaired by Brisbane-based industry veteran Leanne de Souza (Nightlife Music), and also features Belinda Raeburn (EMC, Sweat It Out, Young Strangers), Andrew Jackson (Milton Archer Inc / Avoca Drive), Elliott Bledsloe (Australian Digital Alliance), Lilian Hautemulle (Sivillian Affairs) and Michael Manahan (Kinetic Marketing).

The board will work closely with EMC Director Jane Slingo to develop its strategy for 2021 – 2024 and beyond.

“The electronic music sector is constantly changing with ongoing challenges to address and navigate,” comments Slingo in a statement.

“The events and impacts of 2020 have heightened this significantly. I’m honoured and grateful to have such an exceptional brains trust to inform EMC’s strategic direction as we embark on a period of reimagining and building resilience.”

Jane Slingo

Since the pandemic shut down nightlife and live entertainment around the globe, EMC has hosted 12 virtual events.

The trade body also launch United We Stream Australia, an online showcase which has provided a global platform for a diverse lineup of homegrown acts and helped raise more than $11,000 for good causes, including Heaps Decent and Support Act.

In the second half of 2020, United We Stream Australia has presented performances from 32 artists and captured more than 170,000 viewers from around the globe.

Sasha and Lars Brandle at EMC 2018

EMC’s flagship Sydney conference is the leading electronic music event of its kind in Asia Pacific.

Over the years, speakers have included Alison Wonderland, Andrew Weatherall, Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox, Dillon Francis, Diplo, Flume, Gilles Peterson, Sasha and Tiesto.

EMC also hosts ongoing virtual events under the “EMC Connect” banner, masterclasses, workshops and more.