Overview

• Audley will step down at the end of December 2025, concluding a 17-year run leading Los Angeles’ film-permitting nonprofit.
• Chief financial and operating officer Denise Gutches has been appointed CEO effective Jan. 1, 2026, following a year-long planned succession.
• Gutches’ immediate agenda includes proposing contract changes with the Los Angeles Board of Public Works and streamlining low-impact permits to cut costs.
• California expanded its film and TV tax credit program earlier this year, and recent awards include 22 series with most filming in the Los Angeles area.
• FilmLA has downsized staff from 117 to 74 and reassigned leadership roles, with Donna Washington moving to vice president of external affairs and Philip Sokoloski continuing in communications.