Film Academy’s Executive VP of Member Relations and Awards Leaves Organization

After nearly ten years at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), Shawn Finnie, executive vice president of member relations, international outreach, and awards, announced his departure on Thursday, July 13.

Finnie was popular in the Academy and advanced through the ranks with several promotions. His departure occurred after Christine Simmons, a previous COO, promoted him in June 2021. He oversaw engagement and outreach programs for the organization's more than 10,000 international artists, directors, and executives. He also oversaw a group of more than 20 employees.

The departure follows the resignation of other Black executives at several Hollywood studios and organizations. Last month, his former coworker Jeanell English, executive vice president of impact and inclusion, also left the company. Rosie Perez, who spoke at the Variety Power of Women NYC event, praised Finnie as one of the key individuals who helped get her invited back to the Oscars after a 30-year absence. Finnie worked on various DEI programs for the Academy and was well-liked by members.

Hollywood and local politicians, such as the California Black Caucus, have taken notice of the widespread departure of Black executives and have demanded an explanation from the studios. One change that attracted attention was the Academy hiring Tamika Etheart to oversee its New York activities. Etheart replaces Patrick Harrison, a respected organization veteran who left in March 2022 after 22 years, joining the Academy from The Paley Center.

The Academy is currently in the first year of putting the diversity and inclusion guidelines it released as part of its Aperture 2024 project in 2020 into practice. Even though the initiatives were launched three years ago, vocal critics like Richard Dreyfus have subsequently voiced their displeasure with them.

After 398 industry experts joined the Academy last month, 34% of members are now women, 18% are from underrepresented areas, and 20% are from outside the United States.