The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) is the largest organization of Location Managers and Location Scouts in the motion picture, television, commercial and print production industries. Their membership plays a vital role in the creativ
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1530899
8 • LMGI COMPASS | Winter 2025 IN THE NEWS The LMGI Congratulates Erika Howard, LMGI Communications and Operations Director Erika Howard has stepped into a new role as LMGI Communications and Operations Director. For the past six years, first as an LMGI administrator, then as its administrative director, she has been the Guild's backbone, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the day-to-day side of the organization running smoothly. As the Guild has grown, so has Howard's participation in all aspects of its expansion. "I am honored to step into this exciting and much broader role representing the incredibly talented location professionals of the LMGI," says Howard. "Over the past six years, I've witnessed this organization create countless opportunities to elevate and expand our reach globally. I'm passionate about furthering initiatives that connect, support and advocate for our members and the global film community." Howard's positive attitude and entrepreneurial spirit, along with her organizational and people skills, have been a good fit for keeping an organization of busy volunteers on track. In her new leadership role, Howard will be entrusted to foster greater collaboration among LMGI committees, support and empower the seven newly created regional chapters, and spearhead updates to the LMGI member portal and internal systems to better serve a growing membership. Howard will continue to interface and support the work of the Board and multiple LMGI committees, such as Marketing and PR, Education, and of course, the LMGI Awards and award galas. She has a hand in organizing and promoting LMGI member Zooms such as Coffee Tuesdays, Virtual Fam Tours and the award panels. The newsletter, email blasts and LMGI convention booths all benefit from her involvement. "I also enjoy running events and celebrations and have had the privilege of hosting many memorable gatherings that bring our community together," she adds. "I love to listen to what members have to say and am highly respectful of their ideas and opinions, often helping transform them into meaningful action or projects that lift up our image." "Erika has been invaluable to the growth and success of the Guild," attests LMGI President John Rakich, "and her passion, dedication and fresh ideas will continue to be a huge asset as we move forward and strengthen our community. We're excited to welcome Erika Howard as the LMGI's new Communications and Operations Director." After running her own successful fashion business for 16 years, Howard looked for something new to do after the birth of her daughter. An ad for the LMGI caught her eye. "When I started with the LMGI in 2018, I felt that my business and PR experience would be valued, and that I would be engaging with very interesting and creative people. I've always loved movies, photography and travel, so signing on with the LMGI aligned with my interests and has allowed me to thrive as I came to understand more and more the role location professionals play in the wider world of entertainment. "My goal is to ensure that every location professional feels empowered, valued, heard and, most importantly, recognized as an indispensable creative within their production teams. Together, we can continue to grow this exceptional organization. Always remember, we are stronger together!" Connect with Erika at: Erika@LocationManagers.org LMGI members at FOCUS 2023: John Rakich, Mike Fantasia, Erika Howard, Harriet Lawrence, Lottie Ludkin, Ben Bailey