Writing WA appoints Yeoman as CEO

Writing WA has appointed literary editor, festival director and journalist Will Yeoman as its new chief executive officer (CEO), starting 24 April.

‘I am absolutely stoked to welcome Will Yeoman to Writing WA as our new CEO,’ said Writing WA deputy chair Holden Sheppard. ‘Will’s vision for Writing WA is focused on delivering what all writers—at every stage of our careers—need from our state’s peak body, and ensuring readers are brought along for the journey, too.’

‘Speaking for the Writing WA Board, we are united in our confidence that Will’s energy and extensive arts experience make him the perfect candidate to lead us into our next chapter. And speaking personally, as a WA author myself, I am excited about the new opportunities about to unfold for writers in this state. I am looking forward to working with Will and I am confident Writing WA will continue to evolve and thrive under his expert guidance. The future is bright for writers in Western Australia,’ said Sheppard.

Yeoman said: ‘It’s an honour and a privilege to be invited to take up the role of CEO of Writing WA. Western Australian writing has always possessed a unique voice, and its authors, poets and other artists of the word deserve to be encouraged and supported at every stage of their journey from emerging writer through to late-style master. Moreover, passionate readers of their work deserve the same courtesy, for one cannot exist without the other. I look forward to providing writers and readers alike with a full, exciting year-round program of workshops, mentorships, events and other activities, including multidisciplinary presentations, that will bring the WA community together in a shared celebration of our literary heritage, present and indeed future. In short, I can’t wait to get stuck in!’

At the West Australian, Yeoman worked as literary editor, before moving into arts and travel. He continues as a music critic for Limelight and Gramophone magazines. Yeoman is artistic director of York Writers Festival and York Festival, which take place in the town of York east of Perth. Previously he was artistic director of New Norcia Writers Festival and Perth Festival Writers Week.

Yeoman replaces Sharon Flindell, who resigned as CEO at the end of 2022 after serving in the position since 2005.

Category: Local news