Posted March 16, 2021
The Film Program Manager is an integral position for the Utah Film Center. This position works closely with the Executive Director to create diverse, high-quality, and unique film programming, embracing all genres, cultures, and viewpoints. The Film Program Manager is also responsible for the creation and planning of professional development workshops for working and aspiring filmmakers. This position is part of the UtFC Programming team, which is responsible for implementing all of the UtFCs programs and assures that all activities and events adhere to the artistic vision and reputation of the organization.
The successful candidate will be an innovative, highly-organized, and collaborative team-player, with a background in film programming, an interest in non-fiction storytelling across different formats, and a track record of delivering engaging, inspiring, and creative programs. Previous experience working in a non-profit environment and/or for programs of artist support is a plus.
*This is a Salt Lake City-based position that is currently a remote/work-from-home position until it is safe to return to an office environment.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Film Curation
- Oversee the curation of Utah Film Center’s film programming including 50+ films as part of Utah Film Center’s Core Programming and 40+ films for the Utah Film Center’s film festivals. This includes, but not is limited to, soliciting and evaluating films, negotiating licensing agreements and fees, managing an annual budget, and coordinating post-film Q&As or discussions.
- Manage all aspects of the film exhibition pipeline from curation to presentation.
- Assemble and supervise programming contractors or community volunteers (LGBTQ, Young Audiences, African-American, Native, etc.) to deliver high-quality engaging programming.
- Develop and sustain positive relationships with filmmakers, distributors, sales agents, and others who represent both established and emerging talent in the global film industry.
- Create and manage the master film screening schedule and film database.
- Write original film descriptions as required.
- Prepare and present engaging film introductions, and professionally moderated film Q&A sessions.
- Work closely with the Executive Director and members of the programming team to ensure an outstanding guest experience.
- Collaborate with internal teams for audience building, to ensure that the marketing and outreach efforts reach the intended and potentially interested audiences, and reflect the artistic vision of the organization.
- Assure that the programming timeline and schedule reflects the workflow and resources required, and is set up to achieve the best outcomes for the organization.
- Work with the Exhibition and Technology Officer on all operational and presentation needs.
- Participate actively in the development, marketing, and promotional activities of Utah Film Center, and serve as a spokesperson for the organization. This may include writing reports, articles, or blog posts as needed.
- Other duties as assigned.
Artist Support
- Work closely with the Manager of Artist Support Services to design and implement professional development opportunities by designing workshops, discussions, networking opportunities, and selecting speakers/mentors in the areas of editing, fundraising, post-production, marketing, festival strategy, sales, delivery, and distribution, among others.
- Act as point of contact for filmmakers and artists participating in UtFC’s Artist Support program.
- Other duties as assigned.
Organizational Responsibilities
- Support UtFC senior management to ensure complete, timely and accurate information is available as applies to sponsorship, grant-writing, and fundraising.
- Continue to develop new programs that engage diverse audiences,and build recognition of UtFC programs on local, regional, and national levels.
- Representing the UtFC in the community.
- Other responsibilities as assigned.
Preferred Experience and Skills
- Three+ years of experience as part of a film festival or film organization programming team.
- A history of artistic achievement and creative vision.
- Outstanding organizational skills and the ability to take initiative and self-manage workload while performing well in a fast-paced environment and against deadlines.
- A demonstrated dynamic public presence that will inspire the board, staff, members, and audience to support the artistic vision.
- Management experience, supervising contractors, or part-time staff is preferred.
- The experience and desire to build, mentor, and lead a strong programming team and artistic staff through a collaborative and open management style.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in recording, tracking, and issuing information
- Knowledge of new film exhibition platforms, mediums, and storytelling formats
- The ability to provide innovative responses to organizational challenges.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Must be able to work some nights and weekends.
- Having additional language skills is a plus.
To apply: Submit cover letter, resume, and three references to apply@utahfilmcenter.org.
