New President for Hot Docs

Marie Nelson has been named as Hot Docs’ new president.

Nelson is a media veteran with decades of experience in independent documentary film, news and broadcasting. She most recently served as senior VP at ABC News/Disney, where she led a brand and content strategy that pioneered and developed inclusive and diverse-led content for television, streaming and film audiences.

Nelson will assume responsibility for the strategic leadership and management of the annual Hot Docs festival, conference and market, the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema and the organization’s year-round industry and public-facing initiatives and activities.

“Marie is a dynamic leader with a proven track record of supporting filmmakers, growing and diversifying audiences and lifting powerful and yet often unheard voices into national discussion, which makes her ideally suited to lead Hot Docs into its next chapter,” said Lalita Krishna, co-chair of Hot Docs Board of Directors.

“She is well-known and respected in the international industry for her passion and commitment, along with her sharp insights and strategic skill at establishing organizational frameworks that empower original storytelling,” added co-chair Robin Mirsky. “On behalf of the entire board, we’re thrilled to welcome her to the team, and we look forward to working with her to realize the incredible opportunities ahead.”

“For me, having the chance to link arms with Hot Docs was an unequivocal swipe right,” said Nelson. “From my first trip to Toronto for the festival and its legendary pitch forum, it was love at first sight. Hot Docs has earned its reputation as a beacon for the global documentary filmmaking community and their audiences by fostering a sense of home and supporting the best in the genre year-round. I am so energized to begin working with my colleagues at Hot Docs to continue innovating and building an even more inclusive and dynamic future for our storytellers.”