Sheffield DocFest is preparing for its 32nd edition with a new leadership change.
- Anne Morrison has been unanimously appointed as the new chair of the Sheffield DocFest board.
- Morrison brings extensive experience from her previous roles at Nevision and the BBC.
- Her focus will be on governance, diversity, and strategic partnerships for the festival.
- Morrison has long been involved with Sheffield DocFest, expressing deep commitment to its mission.
Anne Morrison, a distinguished figure in the media industry, has been appointed as the new chair of the Sheffield DocFest board of trustees. This decision comes as the festival gears up for its 32nd edition scheduled to take place in June 2025. Following a comprehensive recruitment process over the summer and subsequent interviews, Morrison was unanimously chosen, succeeding Alex Cooke, who has led the organization through the past five editions.
Morrison joins Sheffield DocFest with an impressive track record as an executive producer and media consultant. She has previously held notable positions, including CEO and creative director at Nevision, where she garnered BAFTA, RTS, and Grierson awards for her documentary work. Her tenure at the BBC further highlights her capabilities, having overseen factual departments and guided the network’s substantial expansion in regional television from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
At the BBC Academy, Morrison served as its first director, administering the largest broadcast training and development program in the UK. Currently, she is involved in a review of BBC’s output portrayal and representation, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry.
In her new role at Sheffield DocFest, Morrison aims to lead the trustees in governance while fostering an inclusive environment. Her responsibilities will extend to nurturing relationships with strategic partners and stakeholders, enhancing the festival’s national and international presence. Morrison’s dedication to documentaries and factual programming is evident, as she emphasizes the importance of these mediums in creating empathy and understanding globally.
Annabel Grundy, managing director of Sheffield DocFest, expressed enthusiasm about Morrison’s appointment, highlighting the valuable expertise and insight she brings. Morrison herself has expressed her longstanding affinity with the festival, stating her intent to continue its legacy of innovation and impact on the film and TV industry.
Anne Morrison’s leadership promises to further elevate Sheffield DocFest as a beacon of innovation and excellence in documentary filmmaking.
