Katie Stewart, General Manager, Departing VMDO

In big news, Katie Stewart is finishing up this month as General Manager of the Victorian Music Development Office, to take on a new role in her area of passion – economic development.

Katie has contributed significantly to the shape and success of the VMDO’s programs and strategy, since the project’s establishment in 2018. Following inaugural GM Bonnie Dalton’s departure in 2020, Katie has led the team through the second phase of the pandemic.

Through the uncertain times of COVID, Katie has shown strong leadership and resilience.

Some of her greatest achievements have included co-designing programs which connect global leaders with the Victorian music industry, and maintaining community connections through online networking events and international delegations.

The launch of Music Market late last year is another testament to Katie’s hard work and dedication to the Victorian music sector, providing a space for the industry to reconnect in person.

“At the risk of sounding cliché, what I found to be most rewarding about working for the VMDO is the people. Not only does VMDO and Music Market have a stellar internal team, we’re also supported by many others; from our parent organisation Music Victoria, our funder Creative Victoria and the thriving arts community within Collingwood Yards. VMDO exists to support the industry and the organisations, businesses and groups within it and I’m so proud of the trust we’ve built within the sector. It has been an amazing 3 ½ years and I’m looking forward to seeing what the VMDO achieves next, hand in hand with the Victorian music industry.” – Katie Stewart

“Before Katie moves onto her next big project, I want to take this opportunity to pause and celebrate all that has been achieved under her leadership. VMDO and Music Market have proven to be vital Victorian State Government initiatives, that Katie has delivered in the most testing times the music industry has ever faced. This is a huge accomplishment, and we are forever grateful to her for bringing these to life.” – Simone Schinkel, CEO Music Victoria

We wish Katie all the best in her new role as she continues to champion opportunities for musicians and the industry.

Simone Schinkel, Music Victoria’s CEO and Aijia (AJ) Li, VMDO’s Music Business Manager will drive the VMDO in the immediate future as we look to secure a new VMDO Director.