Kyra Bartley joins COUSIN as its second director

In its first big move since launching in October last year, COUSIN has signed highly awarded director Kyra Bartley to its roster for Australasian representation.

Bartley’s move to COUSIN comes after eight years at Finch, where she built one of the most distinctive reels in Australian advertising – moving from animation into live action and establishing herself as a director whose work is as emotionally precise as it is visually ambitious. Her commercial work for brands including Google, Vodafone, Tourism Tasmania and UNHCR has been recognised at Cannes, D&AD, Ciclope and AWARD, and in 2024 she was named SHOTS Director of the Year for APAC.

Says Nick Simkins, founder and EP, COUSIN: “We want to be very deliberate about who joins the COUSIN family. When I look at who embodies the passion, craft and forward-thinking attitude that we want to foster, Kyra is at the top of that list. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside her previously, so I know firsthand that she’s someone that cares deeply about the work – what it means, who it’s for, why it matters. That rare sensitivity and clarity aligns perfectly with our vision. And truthfully, we’ve always loved hanging out.”

Adds Bartley: “Leaving somewhere you’ve loved is hard. But the opportunity to reunite with Nick, and to be part of building something with this much creative ambition, was too good to pass up. Everything about what’s ahead feels urgent and exciting and right, and what more could you ask for in a new chapter? To say I’m keen to dive in is an understatement.”

COUSIN was founded by Executive Producer Nick Simkins and director Ariel Martin with a mission to build a company where directors are active participants in shaping its culture, creative direction, and the future of the business. Bartley’s arrival signals that ambition is real – and accelerating.

Kyra Bartley is now available for commercial and creative projects through COUSIN. You can view her reel at www.cousin.site.

Direct enquiries to nick@cousin.site

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