Great Big Sea’s Bob Hallett Named Executive Director of East Coast Music Association
Hallett's new role was the result of "extensive consultation with members, artists, partners and industry representatives" following artist boycotts over the firing of previous CEO Blanche Israël.
After a year of controversy over its leadership, the East Coast Music Association (ECMA) has hired a new executive director.
The CMA has named Great Big Sea's Bob Hallett as the organization’s executive director, effective August 25.
While Hallett is best known as a founding member of the award-winning rock band Great Big Sea, his longstanding career spans music performance, venue revitalization, nonprofit leadership, artist management and large-scale event production. From 2013 to 2015, he sat on ECMA’s board of directors.
“We are confident that Bob's operational expertise, creative leadership and passion for East Coast music make him the right person to bring our mission and strategy to life,” said Michelle Eagles, ECMA board chair, in a news release. “He understands the complexities of our sector and brings a solutions-oriented approach rooted in experience, collaboration, and care for the community.”
Hallett’s appointment comes five months after several artists boycotted the association's awards show and conference amid controversy over the firing of its previous CEO Blanche Israël, calling for transparency about governance and the nomination processes.
In March, the organization published a six-point action plan, and Hallett’s new role was the result of "extensive consultation with members, artists, partners and industry representatives,” according to Eagles. The search process was led by the human resources consulting firm KBRS.
“It’s an honour to step into this role,” said Hallett. “ECMA is a cornerstone of the East Coast music industry, and I look forward to building on its legacy while helping shape its future. That means listening, learning, and working in partnership with artists and communities from every background and experience.”
In the coming months, the organization will continue its ongoing strategic plan and prepare for next year's East Coast Music Awards Festival and Conference in Sydney, Cape Breton.
