Holt exits Telefilm

Ralph Holt is stepping down as head of Ontario and Nunavut for Telefilm Canada, announcing on Friday that he will end his 21-year career at the organization.

Holt will leave on Oct. 3, according to a statement issued by Telefilm. No reason was given for the departure, though Holt said that ‘After a short break I look forward to a new chapter beginning.’

Holt spent most of his time at Telefilm running its office for the Atlantic region, but in 2005 shifted to Toronto, where he joined the effort to boost the appeal of English-language movies. He was later upped to regional head, a post in which he led the creation of the pilot program for theatrical docs and continued to champion films from English Canada.

‘His commitment and approach to his work are admirable,’ said Telefilm COO Elizabeth Friesen.

‘I’ve enjoyed my 21 year ride at Telefilm,’ added Holt. ‘I have been consistently awed by me colleagues’ generosity, ideas and support all these years.’

Telefilm says plans to find a replacement are still in the works.