TORONTO – Bell Media veteran Rick Brace has been named chairman of MuchFACT (A Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent) following the tenure of David Kines who has held the role since March 2011. Brace’s appointment takes effect immediately.
Brace, pictured, recently retired as president of specialty channels and CTV production at Bell Media where he oversaw the development, commissioning, and scheduling strategies for the company’s specialty channels. He first joined the company in 1986 as one of TSN’s pioneers.
MuchFACT is a music video, EPK, viral video and website production fund, exclusively funded by Bell Media divisions Much and M3. It is credited with helping to launch the careers of Canadian musicians including Carly Rae Jepsen, Celine Dion, Dragonette, The Tragically Hip, Arcade Fire, K-OS, Feist, Nelly Furtado, Sam Roberts, Metric, k.d. lang, and the Barenaked Ladies, among others, plus has had a great impact on developing numerous Canadian directors. Since 1984, MuchFACT has awarded over $69 million and funded more than 6,300 projects.
“I am honoured to be a part of an organization committed to funding diverse and talented artists across the country, a fund that has helped to launch the career of some of the most iconic names in Canadian music,” said Brace, in the announcement. “I hope to build on the work that David has done in supporting Canadian musicians and directors, giving them an opportunity to develop their careers.”
“Rick is a true industry leader, with a passion for showcasing both Canadian talent and the Canadian production community”, said Catherine MacLeod, SVP of specialty channels and Bell Media production. We know Rick will continue to shape MuchFACT, and ensure its ongoing success.”
“It's been a great honour leading MuchFACT, helping Canadian musicians from coast-to coast-to-coast express themselves through video,” added David Kines. “I'm thrilled that Bell Media's support of this important work will continue in the very capable hands of Rick Brace.”
