R ob Riselli has been appointed executive director of FilmPEI.

Effective April 4, Riselli will lead the organization to help grow the film and television industry on Prince Edward Island. FilmPEI is a film industry association and media arts co-operative that provides training and mentorship opportunities for the local screen industry while facilitating opportunities for new productions in the province.

Riselli has more than 35 years of experience in the screen sector, most recently serving as director of film programs and reporting for Cultural Industries Ontario North (CION) in Sudbury, Ont.

Omar Broderick currently serves as interim executive director of FilmPEI. Former executive director Renee Laprise stepped down in late 2021 after eight years in the role to return to a career in filmmaking.

Riselli’s past roles include facilities manager at WildBrain (formerly DHX Media) and operations roles at PS Production Services and Cinesite Film Studio in Halifax. He has also served on the boards of Screen Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Film Advisory Committee and the Atlantic Filmmakers Cooperative.

“We are thrilled to have Rob Riselli join our team and to help lead the growth and strategic direction of our organization,” says Mark Sandiford, president of the board of FilmPEI. “Rob possesses a distinctive combination of passion, professional expertise and knowledge, and the personal qualities needed to accomplish our mission. His track record as a thought leader and advocate for filmmakers, will guide our growth and deepen our impact.”

The PEI provincial government introduced the Film Production Fund in 2021 to make the region more competitive as a production destination, replacing the Prince Edward Island Film Media Fund. The fund, which is administered by Innovation PEI, offers a base rebate of 32% of eligible costs.

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