Producer and former DOC Institute director Christine Kleckner has been named as the executive director of the National Screen Institute (NSI).

Kleckner joins effective immediately, according to a news release. She will be working closely with outgoing CEO Joy Loewen over the coming weeks to transition into the role.

Loewen will begin a new role at Canada Media Fund as VP, growth and inclusion on April 29, keeping a part-time advisor role with the NSI.

Kleckner has been based in Toronto for the last 20 years and will be moving to Winnipeg.

An NSI alumna, Kleckner has more than 18 years of experience in the industry, including film production, digital media projects and community-engaged research initiatives.

She became director at the DOC Institute in 2020, serving for more than two years. She has held various production roles at the National Film Board of Canada, Primitive Entertainment and 52 Media, among others.

The NSI said Kleckner’s industry ties and personal connections in Winnipeg and the prairie provinces will boost its “national presence and impact.”

Kleckner said in a statement that her “vision is to foster a nurturing environment that supports the creative and professional growth of storytellers across the country.”

Virginia Thompson, chair of the NSI board of directors, said the appointment comes at “crucial time” for the institute.

“Her [Kleckner’s] impressive background, combined with her passion for the industry and commitment to equity and representation, make her the perfect choice to lead the institute,” added Thompson.

Image courtesy of National Screen Institute