John Chalmers Becomes CEO of Australian Institute of Music

John Chalmers is the new CEO of the Australian Institute of Music (AIM).

He will commence the role in September, replacing outgoing CEO Dr. Greg Clarke.

Chalmers started his career in the music industry as a journalist and wrote for Australian Men’s Health, Rolling Stone and the New York Post. He also edited music magazines Onion and Rip It Up, as well as fashion magazine Attitude.

His career in communications and marketing sae him leading the functions at media intelligence company Isentia including business units Media Monitors, King Content and Brandtology.

Most recently, he was chief marketing and communications officer at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

AIM said Chalmers thus brings a belief in the power of education to transform lives and a deep understanding of media, music, brand, reputation and connecting with audiences.

Ed St John, chair of AIM, said the educational institution is delighted to welcome Chalmers to the fold.

“His depth of experience across all aspects of music, education, marketing and technology will be an incredible asset to AIM, leading the organisation into the future. I take this opportunity to thank Greg Clarke for his outstanding leadership over the past two very challenging years,” he said.

Chalmers said he was thrilled to be returning to the industry where his greatest passion lies.

“I’m excited to be moving into a broader leadership role as the performing arts and higher education sectors re-energise post pandemic, with the opportunity to positively impact lives and livelihoods as students harness both the gift and the business of music to build their talents into careers. At the Australian Institute of Music they’ll be nurtured by an inspiring and collaborative culture and a state-of-the-art campus in Sydney’s Rocks and vibrant King St Melbourne,” he said.