Nick Maniatis will take over the reins of the New Mexico Film Office, Economic Development Secretary-designate Jon Barela announced today.
Maniatis, a veteran of the state’s film industry and longtime member of the Governor’s Council on Film and Media Industries, succeeds Lisa Strout, who now heads up the Massachusetts film office.
Incentives for the state’s film industry have faced scrutiny this year, with Gov. Susana Martinez pushing to trim the rebates given to in-state movies and television projects. A film loan program operated by the State Investment Council has also been tightened up.
In a statement released by the Economic Development Department, Maniatis said he anticipates helping to build a “sustainable” film industry in New Mexico. Meanwhile, Barela suggested Maniatis would be a good fit for the Film Office.
“Nick has deep knowledge of the film landscape in New Mexico, and with his leadership, we’re looking forward to the film industry continuing to be an important part of the state’s economy,” Barela said.
-- Email the reporter at dboyd@abqjournal.com. Call the reporter at 505-992-6281
