IFTA Names New VP of Communications

LOS ANGELES: Jennifer Garnick has been appointed VP of communications for the Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA), while Robin Burt has been promoted to VP of marketing and membership.

In her new role, Garnick will develop and manage communications strategy for the organization, including the growth of IFTA’s online and social media presence. She will lead new digital marketing opportunities and will be involved in planning and executing the American Film Market (AFM).

Garnick joins IFTA from Buzzmedia, where she was VP of publicity and talent relations. Buzzmedia has more than 40 digital brands focused on pop culture, including Buzznet, Celebuzz, Idolator, Just Jared and Stereogum.

Burt, who was previously IFTA’s director of marketing, will continue his role of overseeing marketing and sponsorship activities for AFM, as well as lead membership recruitment for IFTA. He will also manage outreach for IFTA Collections, a non-profit service that collects secondary royalty income for its participants.

Before joining IFTA in 2003, Burt held posts for a range of entertainment organizations, such as Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Special Olympics and the Organizing Committee for the 1994 Soccer World Cup.

Jean Prewitt, the president and CEO of IFTA to whom both Garnick and Burt will report, said: “Jennifer and Robin have proven themselves to be strong executives with a deep understanding of the independent film and television business, as well as a wealth of creativity and contacts. This marks a reunion of sorts with Jennifer, who impressed us previously when we worked closely with her as a key member of our outside communications team. Robin has played an integral role in the success of the AFM throughout much of the past decade and this promotion recognizes the increasing role he has assumed in representing IFTA to the industry.”