Toronto International Film Festival has updated the leadership team to ensure that they are well-positioned in 2024 and beyond
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) CEO, Cameron Bailey, has announced strategic leadership changes to fortify the organisation’s position for 2024 and beyond. The notable appointments include Jennifer Frees as the new Chief Business & Marketing Officer and the promotion of Judy Lung to the role of Vice President of Strategy, Communications & Stakeholder Relations. Both executives will report directly to Bailey.
Bailey said: “As we kick off a new year and prepare not only for this year’s festival but those in the years ahead, we have updated the TIFF Leadership team to ensure that we are well-positioned in 2024 and beyond to continue delivering on our mission, strategy, and business objectives with the most impact. I am pleased to welcome Jennifer Frees back to TIFF in the new role of Chief Business & Marketing Officer, driving revenue and engagement across the organisation. Jenn has an impressive track record of driving growth and innovation as well as a commitment to developing purpose-focused partnerships that support our mission and enhanced audience experience. As well, I am happy to announce that Judy Lung, while continuing to oversee Public Relations and Communications, will step into a new role focused on guiding the design and execution of the organisation’s annual business plan as well as its multi-year strategic plans, while working closely with the Board and key stakeholder groups.”
Frees has diverse revenue leadership, marketing, business development, and strategic partnership experience in private, public and non-profit sectors. Her projects have won marketing and design awards for highly regarded international brands, as well as leading the generation of over $180m for her non-profit clients globally. An internationally sought-after business development speaker and workshop facilitator, Frees has provided executive business development consulting services for an array of organisations in the creative sector and has worked with and trained more than 150 film festival leaders globally.
Commenting on her appointment, Frees commented: “I am delighted to join TIFF in this exciting time of recovery and transformation. As a purpose-driven marketer and business development leader, I am honoured by the unique opportunity to support a pillar of Canadian culture as it approaches its 50th anniversary. I look forward to working alongside TIFF’s innovative teams, partners and supporters to advance our global reputation as the friendliest and most welcoming film institution in the world.”
Judy Lung, previously TIFF’s Vice President of Public Relations & Communications, has been promoted to Vice President, Strategy, Communications & Stakeholder Relations. With more than 20 years of experience, Lung is recognised for her innovative campaigns and initiatives with leading entertainment companies. Lung’s focus on championing Canadian content, fostering strategic partnerships, and promoting inclusivity in the screen sector has been pivotal. She has served on the Board of Directors of BIPOC TV & FILM and spearheaded the HireBIPOC initiative in collaboration with Bell Media and other industry groups. Lung’s recent appointment to the Membership Board of Directors for the Golden Globes reflects her continued influence in the industry.
Lung added: “I’m looking forward to expanding the scope of my role and contributions to ensure the organization’s ongoing and future success. TIFF is a crucial part of the Canadian and global entertainment industry and its growth and evolution ensures opportunities for both the creative community and audiences across the country and around the world. Working alongside Cameron and the rest of the Leadership team to set the direction for the immediate and long-term future is an honour.”
