Whistler Film Festival founder and longtime executive director Shauna Hardy Mishaw is departing to pursue new opportunities following the fest’s upcoming 20th edition this winter.

Effective immediately, the longtime executive director will fill the role of the B.C.-based festival’s interim development director – a position that will see her focus on the organization’s revenue generation and development activities, such as sponsorship and fundraising.

Angela Heck – who was recently promoted to managing director this August – will run the day-to-day operations for WFF which will take place online from December 1 to 20, with plans for physical in theatre screenings in process.

The WFF was founded by Hardy Mishaw and Kasi Lubin in 2001 and has seen Hardy Mishaw serve as the festival’s executive director since its inception.

Credited with being instrumental in creating and spearheading numerous initiatives for WFF over the years, some of her accomplishments include the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature, the festival’s Content Summit, 11 talent development programs and community programming such as the Adventure Film Series and Summer Cinema Series.

The past Whistler Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year and Women in Film and Television Vancouver Women of the Year Award winner is also credited as being an executive producer on 22 short films commissioned as part of WFF’s Whistler Stories legacy project. She also has over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing and event production.

“Through every moment of my WFF journey, I have been driven and inspired by the dedication and commitment of our community, staff, supporters, audiences and artists, which have enabled us to become one of Whistler’s signature events, grow our reputation as a champion and incubator of diverse domestic talent and great stories, and do our part to move the dialogue forward on gender equity, diversity and inclusion,” said Hardy Mishaw in a statement. “I am very proud of the impact and legacy we have created, and know that our team is well-positioned to succeed with the online and physical delivery of our programs going forward.”

Hardy Mishaw will remain active on WFF’s board of directors.