SAG-AFTRA Announces New Nashville Local Executive Director

SAG-AFTRA today announced the hiring of Richard Van Syckle as the new Nashville Local executive director, overseeing the union’s day-to-day business on a local level.

Van Syckle comes to SAG-AFTRA with a wealth of experience in network television and new media production, major market local news, national marketing and advertising and international syndication. He has produced, written and directed many projects with SAG-AFTRA members and is a firm believer of the union as the artist’s representative.

“Richard was the right fit for the Nashville Local at a time when local production is growing and the music industry continues to be a dominant force along Music Row,” said National Executive Director David White. “We are excited for him to bring his creative talent and business management skills to the Nashville Local membership and SAG-AFTRA.”

Nashville Local President Pat Alger served on the search committee and said, “Most impressive to the committee was the fact that Richard understood our contracts and membership and came to the interview with a clear idea of what this local does, the diversity of the membership and the challenges that lie ahead in the months and years to come.”

“SAG-AFTRA has a significant presence in Nashville, especially with its offices on Music Row, and I’m looking forward to working with the local membership and leadership to continue the union’s high profile in the music and entertainment industry,” Van Syckle said.

Van Syckle began May 4 and reports to SAG-AFTRA Assistant National Executive Director, Locals Linda Dowell. He will be formally introduced to members at the local’s annual membership meeting June 3.

For the last 10 years, Van Syckle has worked in Nashville with many local and national production companies, including CMT/MTV. He has received multiple awards for writing, directing and producing, including Emmy Awards, an Associated Press Television and Radio Association (APTRA) Award, a Radio Television News Association of Southern California’s Golden Mike Award, a GLAAD Media Award and the 2014 Nashville International Association of Business Communicators Gold Pen Award. He is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.