Announcement of Executive Director Transition

SEATTLE—April 21, 2021—At the end of the month, Andrew Haines will depart from his role as SIFF's executive director. Andrew notified the board in early March of his intention and has worked collaboratively with both staff and board to ensure an orderly transition while also planning and executing the hugely successful, first-ever virtual Seattle International Film Festival.

Andrew successfully responded to the Covid crisis and guided SIFF through a time of immense uncertainty and change. During his tenure, Andrew oversaw SIFF’s best year of fundraising and led the organization through the transition to and expansion of virtual programming—including the virtual Seattle International Film Festival, year-round virtual cinema, as well as Cinema Italian Style.

“Thanks in large part to Andrew’s commitment during this past year, SIFF is a more nimble organization, ready and eager to respond to emerging opportunities, offering film—and shared experiences around film—to a larger audience than ever.”—Amy Fulford, SIFF Board President

“While it has been a tremendous opportunity to serve as the Executive Director of SIFF, I believe the time has come for me to transition and to allow SIFF the opportunity to bring in a candidate who is uniquely positioned to lead SIFF into the future. It has been an honor to work side by side with the amazing staff and board members whose dedication and passion for SIFF is unparalleled,” said Andrew Haines.

Over the next several months, the Board will be conducting a thorough search to find SIFF’s next Executive Director. The Board will prioritize finding a dynamic leader with a true passion for SIFF’s mission: To create experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world.

In the interim, Jacqueline Dupuis will be joining SIFF as the General Manager. Dupuis has served as the Executive Director of the Calgary International Film Festival and the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF).

“We’re excited about bringing Jacqueline’s experience and business acumen to SIFF and believe that she will make a great Interim General Manager”—Ruth Johnston, SIFF Board Member

ABOUT SIFF

Beginning in 1976 with the annual Seattle International Film Festival, expanding into year-round programming, and our five-screen SIFF Cinema—SIFF creates experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world. Recognized as one of the top film festivals in North America, the Seattle International Film Festival is the longest, most highly attended film festival in the United States, traditionally reaching more than 150,000 annually.