Clare Stewart Leaves Role as Rotterdam Film Festival Managing Director

Stewart’s Tenure at the International Film Festival Rotterdam

Clare Stewart took on the role of Managing Director at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) in 2020, sharing leadership duties with Festival Director Vanja Kaludjercic. Over four editions she helped shape a program that balances avant‑garde cinema with market‑driven initiatives, reinforcing Rotterdam’s reputation as a hub for experimental and independent film.

Key milestones during Stewart’s tenure include:

Expansion of the Displacement Film Fund, which provided short‑film grants to displaced creators.
Introduction of a new industry platform that connected emerging producers with international sales agents.
Growth of audience numbers by more than twenty percent, driven by outreach programs and city‑wide screenings.
Strengthening of sustainability practices, resulting in a carbon‑neutral event for the first time.

These achievements were highlighted in a recent Variety report, which praised Stewart’s strategic vision and collaborative approach.

Transition Plans and Continued Involvement

Stewart announced that she will remain in her post through the next edition of the festival, scheduled for early 2025. This transition period allows the organization to maintain continuity while preparing a successor. Stewart’s decision to stay involved reflects her commitment to the festival’s long‑term health.

Displacement Film Fund – A Continuing Commitment

Although she will step down from the managing director role, Stewart will continue to serve on the board of the Displacement Film Fund. The fund, founded in 2020, supports filmmakers who have been forced to flee their homes, offering both financial assistance and mentorship. Stewart’s ongoing participation ensures that the fund retains its original focus on artistic freedom and social relevance.

Industry Reactions

Colleagues and industry observers have expressed admiration for Stewart’s work. Vanja Kaludjercic remarked, "Clare’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding IFFR’s global reach while staying true to its experimental roots." The Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, which provides partial funding for the festival, issued a statement noting that Stewart’s tenure has "enhanced the cultural landscape of the Netherlands and elevated the profile of Dutch cinema on the world stage."

Implications for the Festival’s Future

Stewart’s departure opens a window for fresh leadership, yet the structures she helped build are expected to endure. The joint model of a Managing Director and a Festival Director, established during her time, will likely continue, providing a balance between artistic programming and operational management.

Potential areas of focus for the upcoming leadership include:

Deepening partnerships with European film institutions to broaden co‑production opportunities.
Expanding digital outreach to reach audiences beyond the Netherlands.
Maintaining the festival’s commitment to climate‑friendly practices.
Further integrating the Displacement Film Fund into the main festival schedule.

These priorities align with the strategic plan released by IFFR in 2022, which emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and industry development.

As the festival prepares for its 2025 edition, the board will begin a search for a new Managing Director. The process is expected to be transparent and inclusive, inviting candidates with experience in both cultural programming and international market dynamics.

Stewart’s legacy at IFFR is marked by a blend of artistic daring and pragmatic growth. Her continued involvement with the Displacement Film Fund promises to keep the spirit of her leadership alive, even as new voices take the helm.