Film Programmer

Position Description – Film Programmer

EFFA is looking for passionate volunteer film programmers to join our organisation. Working as part of a small and dynamic team, programmers will collaborate to select films for screening at the 2020 festival that reflect EFFA’s artistic vision.

Applications for this position are open until midnight Tuesday 28 January, 2020.

Purpose: Programmers will primarily assist in the process of film curation as well as the building of panels, workshops and other festival programs. Additionally, programmers will help to implement the artistic and programmatic focus of the organisation in consultation with the Director and Program Manager.

Commitment: Expected time commitment averaging up to 12 hours per week. Hours will increase during peak periods and in the lead up to the festival.

Start date: 3 February 2020

Remuneration: None, this is a voluntary role, any relevant expenses covered

Reports to: Program Manager, Environmental Film Festival Australia

ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL AUSTRALIA (EFFA)

The Environmental Film Festival Australia began in 2010 (As EFF Melbourne) with a vision to inform, engage and inspire on the environmental issues that affect us today and has since grown into one of Melbourne’s most notable ‘green’ events, weaving its way into the colourful tapestry that is Melbourne’s arts and cultural life. With this growing success, and a willing team, the festival has expanded to spread the power of environmental films to more people, increasing the number of special events and focusing on partnerships that enable the festival to successfully and sustainably deliver to its mission.

A not-for-profit organisation entering its tenth year of operations, EFFA remains dedicated to advancing the knowledge and understanding of environmental issues. The festival uses the power of film and debate to unite filmmakers, environmentalists, scientists, experts, and the broader public in their desire to actively engage in issues that affect all our futures.

From exquisitely shot documentary features and spellbinding short narratives, to thought-provoking expert panel discussions and conversations with filmmakers, our program engages people from all walks of life. With strong partnerships and the support of organisations that share our values, EFFA continues to grow and challenge the way people think about the natural world.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH EFFA

• Inspiring Australians of all ages to make positive and sustainable change

• Working with, and promoting, Australia and the world’s best environmental filmmakers

• Becoming part of a team inspired by the power of filmmaking to capture hearts and minds

• Participating in, and leading, one of Australia’s most notable sustainability events

• Where possible, access to professional development opportunities

• Enjoy EFFA with teammates and your networks – access all areas!

PROGRAMMER ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Find suitable films to consider for selection – implement research skills to uncover relevant films for programming consideration

• Watch and evaluate film content – critically assess a weekly allocation of films and report on their suitability for selection. Note – both feature and short film programming positions are available

• Support the Festival Director and Program Manager in film selection – attend monthly team meetings to discuss viewing and engage in the festival’s curatorial processAssist in the curation of panels, talks and workshops – Opportunities exist to facilitate post-film discussions and organise activities during the festival that target environmental film industry practitioners and other environmentalists

• Help Promote EFFA – advertising EFFA events and programs

• Serve as Film Host – present films, pre-screening, on behalf of the programming team at the 2020

  festival

• Participate in various Front of House (FOH) duties throughout the festival – gain valuable experience and insight into festival operations and management

  KEY COMPETENCIES

• A passion for and critical understanding of film, particularly documentaries, shorts and issues-based cinema

• An interest in, and understanding of, contemporary environmental issues at a local, national and international level

• Strong research skills and demonstrable proficiency in using Gmail, Excel and Google Documents suite

• Agility, flexibility, problem-solving and resourcefulness

• Experience working in the arts, film, not-for-profit arts sector or a festival environment will be viewed favourably

  DESIRED PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Communication – high level written and verbal communication skills

• Interpersonal skills – excellent people skills with colleagues, clients, and audiences

• Motivated – positive and passionate about the job, festival and team

• Team work – ability to work effectively in a small volunteer team

• Accountable – trusted to undertake tasks responsibly, effectively and meet deadlines.

  Please send your CV and cover letter to Nathan Senn, EFFA Program Manager, by midnight Tuesday 28 January 2020: nathan@effa.org.au.