The Vancouver International Film Festival will be undergoing change as its executive director plans for her depature.

After eight years, Jacqueline Dupuis announced today (July 8) in a statement that will be leaving her position after the 2019 festival “to pursue other professional and personal interests”.

Dupuis, who had previously been the executive director of the Calgary International Film Festival for three years, joined the Vancouver International Film Festival in 2013 and became VIFF’s executive director in 2014.

She took over the position from Alan Franey, who shifted into the position of director of international programming. Franey had served as VIFF's CEO and festival director for 26 years.

Dupuis stated that VIFF has an annual operating budget of over $5.5 million and has increased new attendance by 25 percent and a 40 percent growth in overall revenue.

Some of the new developments implemented at VIFF during Dupuis’ tenure included an expansion of programming to incorporate related fields, such as the Style in Film series; VIFF AMP, a summit for music in film and TV; and VIFF Immersed, for storytelling involving tech such as virtual reality; as well as other industry-related elements, such as the environmental Sustainable Production Forum.

Under Dupuis' leadership, the film categories were reorganized under new names, such as Impact for topical issues or Gateway for East Asian film. New programs also helped to shine a spotlight on experimental and edgy content, such as Future//Present for unique and daring Canadian films and Altered States for genre-defying work. 

Over the coming months, Dupuis will work with the senior leadership team as an advisor to the board to develop a succession plan.

She also mentioned that the Vancouver International Film Centre (which houses Vancity Theatre) will be undergoing a “reimagining” by expanding its programming with more details to be announced.

The 38th edition of the festival will take place this year from September 26 to October 11.