Toronto, ON (January 25, 2024) – Gail Haupert has stepped into the newly created Director of Contracts role at ACTRA Toronto following the retirement of Director of Commercial Production Judy Barefoot.

Haupert moves up from her role as Director of Film, Television and Digital Media (FTDM). Ms. Barefoot will stay on in an advisory capacity during the transition.

Gail Haupert is a forward-thinking union leader with 15+ years of expertise. She is proficient in summarizing complex agreement language into easy-to-read, one-page documents and is always proud to see the work done by ACTRA members in both domestic and foreign productions. Gail was honoured to be recently appointed by the Toronto City Council to serve on the Film, Television and Digital Media Board for the 2023-2026 term.

Judy Barefoot has been an integral part of the union over the past 43 years, contributing her passion, expertise and unwavering commitment to the growth and success of ACTRA Toronto. Her wealth of knowledge, tireless work ethic and genuine care for the industry have left an indelible mark on ACTRA Toronto.

ACTRA Toronto Executive Director Alistair Hepburn said: “Gail has shown her exceptional leadership skills throughout her years at ACTRA Toronto as she has deftly represented Toronto members at the bargaining table and mastered all things animation. I know Gail will equally shine in this new role as Director of Contracts.” Added Hepburn: “From negotiating fair contracts to fostering a sense of family among members and staff, Judy’s impact is woven into the fabric of our organization. Her leadership, resilience and passion have inspired us all, and her absence will be deeply felt.”

“I have had the pleasure of sitting at the bargaining table with Gail through numerous rounds of negotiations and know she will bring her dedication to our union and commitment to our members into her new role,” said ACTRA Toronto President David Gale. Added Gale: “Throughout her remarkable tenure, Judy has played a pivotal role in shaping the commercial production landscape across Canada while advocating for the rights and well-being of our members. We thank Judy for her dedication and leadership, and wish her all the best in her new chapter.”

About ACTRA Toronto:
ACTRA Toronto is the largest organization within ACTRA, representing more than 15,000 of Canada’s 28,000 professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. As an advocate for Canadian culture since 1943, ACTRA is a member-driven union that continues to secure rights and respect for the work of professional performers.

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Media Contact:
Jennifer McGibbon, Public Relations Officer
Tel: 416-642-6710; E-mail: jmcgibbon@actratoronto.com