Long-time prominent cinema industry identity, Joseph Moodabe ONZM, has been appointed as the new Chief Barker (President) of Variety - The Children’s Charity, succeeding Pam Fauvel QSM, who steps down after four years as President in accordance with Variety’s governance policies.

“Joe has been a dedicated and passionate supporter of Variety over the last twelve years, more recently as a member of the Board of Directors and the chair of Variety’s 2008 International Convention committee. His personal and professional involvement with Variety was rewarded with a Variety International Presidential Citation in 2005,” said Lorraine Taylor, CEO of Variety, which is currently celebrating its 21st anniversary in New Zealand.

“In his former roles of Chief Executive of Hoyts Cinemas and then of Village SKYCITY Cinemas, Joe provided special screenings for countless movie premieres and special fundraising events, and was instrumental in building cinema industry support for Variety,” she continued.

“He truly has helped children’s dreams come true. When a young cancer patient was too sick to attend a much anticipated movie premiere, Joe did not hesitate, closing an entire cinema to the public and screened the film for him to enjoy with his family and friends”.

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Mr Moodabe is excited about the challenges ahead.

“Over the last 21 years, Variety has distributed over $12 million in grants to help thousands of sick, disabled and disadvantaged Kiwi kids to reach their full potential. What has always impressed me about Variety has been the passion and dedication of the countless volunteers who have contributed to the ‘Variety cause’ year after year.

“I am fortunate to have such a skilled and enthusiastic Board to provide the impetus for the future,” he said.

“This allied to the dedicated Executive Team headed by CEO Lorraine Taylor, should ensure I should be able to build on the great work in the future.

“Following Pam is a redoubtable challenge which I am really looking forward to,” he concluded.

ENDS

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