The International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600) named Alex Tonnison as its new national executive director Saturday afternoon during its executive board meeting in Los Angeles.
Initially appointed as Goold’s western region director in June 2019, Tonnison has been described as a 19-year-old vet of the labor movement. He has served as Interim National Executive Director (NED) since early May, succeeding interim NED Chaim Kantor and former ICG National Director Rebecca Raine. In this role, Tonnison will be responsible for advancing the Guild’s interests in what he describes today as “a period of disruption, change and opportunity for the television and motion picture industry”.
Tonnison will lead key negotiations on behalf of the ICG and administer the Guild’s local agreement with producers. He will also oversee a full-time staff of more than 65 employees and work closely with other IATSE local and international chapters to progress the union.
Prior to joining Local 600, Tonnison served as Director of Field Services for the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE Local 21), Co-Chair of the Golden Gate Bridge Labor Coalition, and was appointed as the City and County was appointed as Commissioner. San Francisco Citizens of the Government Obligation Bond Oversight Committee. He also served as a senior political community organizer with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). In 2004, Tonnison helped pass the Mental Health Services Act as a Northern California field organizer on California’s statewide Proposition 63 campaign.
“I am excited for this opportunity to continue the important work ICG does, including the vital support provided by the Guild during this industry-wide strike that has affected so many of our members,” Tonnison said. Is.” “It is my honor to represent the best interests of our members, who include some of the most brilliant, creative and talented individuals in our industry – during this critical moment of technology-driven transformation in film and the arts.”
ICG National Vice President Chris Silano said: “Alex’s appointment is a positive step for ICG / his long history in the labor movement, combined with his proven success in leading the Guild in a number of capacities, illustrates how he will be a great fit for our national Well positioned to formally take over the reins as Executive Director.