Michigan Film Office director Carrie Jones, 34, hadn’t previously worked in arts or entertainment, but when the film incentives were created, “I knew that it was something I wanted to get involved in, just because it’s such an exciting thing for Michigan.”
Jones was running Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s political office when she learned that MFO director Janet Lockwood planned to retire.
Jones then campaigned for, and won, the job. She began serving as the deputy director in February, then became the MFO director on July 1.
Jones took over in the middle of Michigan’s busiest film season yet. In 2008 filmmakers spent $125 million in Michigan. In 2009 the number rose to $223. This year, Jones estimates that spending “will surpass $300 million” ? a total of $648 million from movies and TV in that period.
It’s no wonder that Jones lists a lack of time as her biggest challenge.
“There are so many great projects coming to Michigan, and so many folks who are interested in coming, that I just find that there’s not enough hours in the day,” Jones explains.
In addition to Jones, the MFO has a staff of six who assist filmmakers with finding locations and coordinating with local governments, handle applications for incentives (about a four-week process from the time the MFO receives a complete application) and help set standards for industry training. Several employees began in politics.
