Telefilm Canada has appointed Anita Damiani (pictured) as national director, feature films – French market for a five-year term.

Damiani assumed the role on July 2, succeeding Marie-France Godbout, who will retire on July 30 following 14 years in the position. Godbout is supporting Damiani in the transition, a Telefilm Canada spokesperson told Playback Daily.

Damiani is based in Montreal and reports to Francesca Accinelli, Telefilm’s SVP, program strategy and industry development.

As national director for the French market, Damiani will collaborate with the industry with the goal of enhancing the profile and visibility of Canadian features and is responsible for investments in development, production and marketing within the French market.

She will also play a large part in the strategic revision of Telefilm’s programs, in order to align them with current sector priorities. Telefilm has already made progress with the revamp of its Export Assistance Program, now the International Promotion Program – Distribution Support.

Damiani has spent nearly two decades at Telefilm, beginning as a specialist in distribution and marketing, to overseeing the national Theatrical Exhibition Program and French-language documentaries. She was elevated to Quebec regional feature film executive for the francophone market in 2022.

“Anita has a deep understanding of the richness and reach of Canadian cinema – and especially that of francophone cinema,” said Accinelli in a statement. “She’s mastered the workings of the role and is motivated to collaborate with industry.”

Image courtesy of Telefilm Canada