Interactive Ontario president and CEO Christa Dickenson has been named Telefilm’s new executive director.

Minister of Canadian Heritage Melanie Joly made the announcement late Tuesday, following a months-long search for a new ED following the retirement of Carolle Brabant in March.

Dickenson is a highly experienced administrator and leader, having worked in the industry for more than two decades. During her tenure at IO, the organization released the first economic impact study on Ontario’s interactive digital media industry, and introduced an annual digital media expo for MPPs.

Prior to her role at IO, Dickenson held positions at Rogers Communications, CPAC and CTV. She also holds a Master’s degree in film and video production and serves on the Canadian Interactive Alliance, the Institute of Corporate Directors and the Insight Council.

She will begin her five-year term on July 30 and takes over from Jean-Claude Mahé, who was serving in the role on an interim basis.

The industry has largely come out in support of the appointment, with the CMPA calling the appointment a “strong choice.”

“Ms. Dickenson’s track record demonstrates a clear appreciation of the intersection between innovation, culture, effective public policy, and strong business growth,” said Scott Garvie, chair of the CMPA and SVP at Shaftesbury, in a release.

CMF president and CEO Valerie Creighton stated, “”I’m confident Christa’s talent for innovation coupled with her cultural policy advocacy experience will make her an effective leader as Telefilm continues its important work of supporting successful Canadian feature film and talent.”

A representative for Interactive Ontario said the process to find a new president and CEO will begin immediately.