Sydney Film Festival (SFF) recently announced significant changes to its leadership team, appointing Justin Martyniuk as the new Head of Programs and promoting Lisa Kitching to the newly created position of Head of Industry and Special Projects.
Martyniuk, who has been an integral part of the SFF programming team for several years, brings over eight years of experience in film curation to his new role. Originally from South Australia, Martyniuk began his career at the Adelaide Film Festival before joining SFF in 2018, where he has since made a significant impact with his curatorial expertise.
Kitching’s promotion to Head of Industry and Special Projects reflects the festival’s growing importance as a globally connected film institution and its function as a focal point for the local cinema industry. With a decade of experience at SFF, Kitching will now lead the festival’s industry engagement initiatives and oversee special projects, including the Travelling Film Festival, which aims to expand its presence across regional Australia.
Festival Director Nashen Moodley expressed enthusiasm for these appointments:
“After an extensive search for our new Head of Programs, we’re delighted to appoint Justin Martyniuk from within our own ranks,” Moodley said. “Working with him for many years already, I can attest to his fastidiousness, passion and creativity. The Festival, and our audiences, are fortunate to have him play a key role in delivering the next Sydney Film Festival and beyond.
“Likewise, I’m pleased to recognise the dedication of Lisa Kitching, who has worked extensively across the Festival and the wider industry for many years, by appointing her to the newly created role of Head of Industry and Special Projects,” added Moodley.
Both Martyniuk and Kitching have already commenced their new roles, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Sydney Film Festival. Their appointments underscore the festival’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and recognising the contributions of long-standing team members in its ongoing success and growth.
For more information, visit www.sff.org.au.