Senior Film Festival Programmer

Our client, a globally recognized arts organization, is seeking a discerning and experienced Senior Film Festival Programmer to join their team in **Columbus, Ohio, US**. This key position is responsible for curating and shaping the film lineup for one of the region's most prestigious film festivals. The ideal candidate will have an exceptional understanding of cinema across diverse genres and global regions, a keen eye for emerging talent, and a proven ability to manage the film submission and selection process. This role demands a deep passion for film, strong organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with artistic directors, marketing teams, and festival staff.

Responsibilities: Oversee the film submission process, including managing incoming entries, liaising with filmmakers and distributors, and coordinating with screening committees. Curate and program a diverse and compelling selection of films across various categories, ensuring artistic excellence and audience engagement. Develop and maintain relationships with filmmakers, sales agents, distributors, and industry professionals worldwide. Identify and champion emerging filmmakers and innovative cinematic works. Collaborate with the Artistic Director and festival leadership to define the overall artistic vision and thematic focus of the festival. Write insightful film synopses, program notes, and promotional copy for festival catalogs, websites, and press materials. Organize and lead filmmaker Q&A sessions, panels, and other audience engagement events. Assist in securing film rights and managing print/digital traffic for festival screenings. Stay current with global film trends, industry developments, and filmmaking technologies. Contribute to the strategic planning and ongoing development of the film festival. Recruit, train, and supervise festival volunteers and interns assisting with programming. Represent the festival at other film events, markets, and industry gatherings. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Film Studies, Cinema, Arts Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 5 years of experience in film programming, curation, or festival management. Extensive knowledge of international cinema, independent film, documentaries, and short films. Proven track record of identifying and selecting high-quality cinematic works. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong storytelling and writing abilities. Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with meticulous attention to detail. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain professional relationships. Experience working with filmmakers, distributors, and industry professionals. Proficiency in film submission management software and basic knowledge of film exhibition formats. Passion for cinema and a commitment to promoting diverse voices and perspectives in film. Familiarity with the **Columbus, Ohio, US** arts and culture scene is advantageous. This is a unique opportunity for a dedicated film enthusiast to play a crucial role in shaping a prominent cultural event.