Directors Guild of Canada Has New Topper

TORONTO -- The Directors Guild of Canada has chosen a former labor organizer and Steelworkers’ Union negotiator, Gerry Barr, as its new national executive director and CEO.

Montreal-born Barr in August 2011 will replace Brian Anthony, who stepped down from leading the filmmakers’ association after three years in the post.

Since 2000, Barr has been president-CEO of the Canadian Council for International Cooperation, a coalition of NGOs working for international development and humanitarian campaigns.

In his upcoming DGC post, Barr will help lobby Ottawa for new film, TV and new media incentives. 

“His commitment to organized labour and values-based advocacy, and his impressive Ottawa track record are a perfect fit for the DGC,” DGC national president Sturla Gunnarsson said of Barr’s appointment.