A former Toronto mayor is taking the reins of the board of directors for Canada’s premier film festival.
On the eve of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the board of directors announced that John Tory, Toronto’s former mayor, has been appointed chair. His term begins Oct. 1. Tory’s appointment, confirmed via a press release Thursday, comes a week before the start of this years staging of the festival. Jeffrey Remedios is vacating the position.
“I look forward to taking the helm from Jeffrey and building on the strong foundation he has established,” said Tory. “TIFF is an extraordinary institution with an important role to play for Toronto, Canada and around the world.”
Tory said he’s excited to help shape the festivals next chapter.
“Together, we can continue to champion bold storytelling, foster diverse voices and ensure TIFF remains a vital platform for the future of film and culture,” Tory said.
TIFF also announced three other new appointments to the board: Deborah Flint, David Furnish and Daniel Tisch Echevarría. Flint is the president and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority, while Furnish is a filmmaker, producer and philanthropist. Echevarría is the president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
The TIFF statement called Tory a distinguished civic leader, business leader and strategic advisor who served as mayor from 2014 to 2023.
“During his tenure as mayor, he was a strong supporter of TIFF and served as co-chair of the campaign to build TIFF Lightbox,” it said.
Outgoing chair, Jeffrey Remedios, an executive at Universal Music Group, was hailed by TIFF for his championing of “diverse voices and played a pivotal role in helping TIFF navigate its post-pandemic recovery.”
Remedios has held the role of chair since 2021. He was at the helm of the board during key initiatives such as a refresh of TIFF Lightbox, preparations for its highly anticipated 50th anniversary and the launch of TIFF: The Market, the statement noted.
“TIFF exists to connect audiences with stories that challenge, inspire, and bring us together, and it has been my great honour to serve as chair of TIFF’s Board,” said Remedios.
