Ventura County Film Commission Premieres Liaison Position

CAMARILLO, CA, June 27, 2013 (Press-News.org) To promote Ventura County's role in film and strengthen the local economy, the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County, which oversees the county's film commission and the online directory venturacountyfilm411.org, recently contracted with Karen Kelley to fill the newly created film liaison position.

Kelley gained valuable experience and contacts through her recent work as the film liaison for the city of Ventura and the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau. EDC-VC collaborated with both organizations to expand the position's focus countywide.

In this new position, Kelley will facilitate communication between industry and location representatives to create well-managed film activity throughout the region. She will be the point of contact for the film industry, help identify and access film-friendly locations, develop the county's film infrastructure and partnerships, and market the county to the film industry and media.

Having a dedicated film liaison is expected to translate to more revenue for area retailers, increased job retention and creation, and improved awareness of Ventura County's assets.

"As a county, it's in our best economic interest to attract more filming to the area," said Bruce Stenslie, president/CEO of EDC-VC. "Having Karen on board reflects our commitment to filming. Establishing the liaison position represents a significant step forward because this is the first time we've had dedicated capacity to promote our county to Hollywood. Plus, Karen has built strong working relationships over the years with so many industry leaders."

Kelley was with the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau for 13 years, the last three of which were as the film liaison for the city. A Burbank native, Kelley has a bachelor's degree from UCLA and did a stint in post production.

"I'm passionate about the economic opportunities of film, its potential to create jobs, provide tax dollars and drive tourism," said Kelley. "I love finding the right location and helping tell the story, whether it be a student film, commercial still shoot, music video or feature."

Ventura County Film411, venturacountyfilm411.org, is a searchable database with more than 350 categories - from aerial cinematography to workshops on film - for use by production companies and their support services.

EDC-VC is a private, nonprofit organization that serves as a business-to-government liaison to assist businesses in Ventura County by offering programs that enhance the economic vitality of the region. For more information about the Small Business Development Center and loan, manufacturing outreach and international trade programs, contact Bruce Stenslie at 805-384-1800 ext. 24, or bruce.stenslie@edc-vc.com. Or visit http://www.edc-vc.com.