Dear FFA Community,
After six years with Film Festival Alliance, and four as Executive Director, I’ll be transitioning out of my role on January 9th, 2026. This has been a difficult decision to make as I am so grateful for, and proud of, the good work we’ve done together to move the film festival industry forward. Within a month of joining FFA in 2020, the pandemic kicked off, and we kicked into high-gear under the leadership of Lela Meadow-Conner, bringing the community together every week as we worked to understand the evolving world.
After I became Executive Director in 2022, our work shifted to building a stronger foundation for festivals and our organization, focusing on leadership development, year-round education, and expanding our advocacy efforts. That work has carried through to today, and will continue in earnest under a new leader, marking a new chapter in FFA history.
What does this mean for FFA? Between now and January 9th, it’s business as usual. I’m fully engaged in our ongoing programs and partnerships. I remain easy to reach via email: barbara@filmfestivalalliance.org and I welcome all opportunities to connect with you over the next few months.
Where am I headed? I’m taking time in the New Year to rest and reflect, including a cross-country move back to New York City. You can be sure you’ll see me at Sundance in Park City and our upcoming IND/EX conference in June 2026. I wouldn’t miss an opportunity to celebrate our community!
With much love and admiration,
Barbara Twist, Executive Director
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On behalf of the FFA Board of Directors, I truly cannot yet express in words the depth and breadth in which Barbara’s work has moved FFA and our sector forward. While I’m not at all ready to see her leave her position, I can’t wait to see what kind of seismic change she forges next. We’ll be taking time over these next months to fully celebrate her and hope you will join us in doing so.
The FFA Board has formed a Search Committee to begin the thorough, robust and equitable process of finding a new Executive Director. Look for applications for this full-time Executive Director position to open next week.
Warmly,
Karen Cardarelli, Board President
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