Senior Film Festival Programmer

Our client, a prestigious and internationally recognized film festival based in the heart of **Dallas, Texas, US**, is seeking an experienced and discerning Senior Film Festival Programmer. This pivotal role involves curating the official selection of films, discovering emerging talent, and shaping the artistic vision of the festival. You will be responsible for reviewing a vast number of submissions, identifying cinematic gems that align with the festival's ethos, and building strong relationships with filmmakers, distributors, and industry professionals worldwide. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate cinephile with exceptional taste and a deep understanding of global cinema to contribute to one of the most exciting cultural events in the region.

Responsibilities:
Oversee the entire film submission and selection process for multiple festival programs. Review and evaluate hundreds of film submissions across various genres and lengths. Identify and champion groundbreaking, diverse, and artistically significant films that align with the festival's curatorial direction. Cultivate relationships with filmmakers, sales agents, distributors, and production companies globally to secure desired films. Program specific film sections and sequences, ensuring thematic coherence and audience engagement. Develop and manage the festival's film schedule, including screenings, Q&As, and special events. Liaise with the technical team to ensure optimal presentation of films. Write compelling program notes and promotional copy for selected films. Contribute to jury selection and coordinate with jury members. Stay abreast of current trends in international cinema and the film industry landscape. Represent the festival at other film festivals, markets, and industry events. Mentor and guide assistant programmers and interns. Provide feedback to filmmakers on submissions. Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to promote the film program. Contribute to the overall strategic planning and artistic development of the festival. Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Film Studies, Cinema, Arts Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus. Minimum of 5 years of experience in film programming, curation, or festival organization. Extensive knowledge of world cinema across different eras and genres, with a strong emphasis on contemporary independent film. Demonstrated ability to identify and articulate artistic merit and cultural significance. Proven track record of building and maintaining strong professional relationships within the film industry. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Proficiency in film submission platforms (e.g., Withoutabox, FilmFreeway) and database management. Ability to travel internationally to film festivals and markets. A passion for storytelling and a commitment to showcasing diverse voices in cinema. Experience in event management and coordination is beneficial. This role is based in **Dallas, Texas, US**, requiring consistent on-site presence for screenings, meetings, and festival operations. This is an incredible opportunity for a dedicated film professional to shape the cinematic experience of a major festival in **Dallas, Texas, US**.