Anne Chaisson Steps Down as Executive Director of Hamptons Film Festival

Anne Chaisson, who has served as the executive director of Hamptons Film Festival’s presenting organization HamptonsFilm since 2012, will be stepping down from her position after this fall’s festival. Her departure marks the end of an era for the festival, which has grown under her leadership.

During her tenure, Chaisson spearheaded a number of initiatives that have helped elevate the festival to its current status. She co-founded and co-chaired the organization’s advisory board in 2002 before taking on the role of executive director. Under her leadership, new programs and awards were introduced, including the Dick Cavett Artistic Champion Award, The Melissa Mathison Award, and The Peter Macgregor Scott Memorial Award.

Chaisson oversaw the expansion of the festival from a five-day event to an 11-day extravaganza. She also guided HamptonsFilm through the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, implementing virtual events and drive-ins as temporary solutions. Despite the obstacles, she managed to grow the organization into a vibrant, year-round non-profit.

As Chaisson prepares to pass the torch, the Chairman of the Board for HamptonsFilm, Randy Mastro, plans to launch a national search for her replacement. The new executive director will be chosen following this year’s October festival. While Chaisson’s departure marks the end of her chapter at HamptonsFilm, it also signals the beginning of a new era for the festival.

In a statement, Chaisson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead HamptonsFilm and reflected on the challenges and successes of her tenure. She expressed pride in the growth of the organization and the accomplishments achieved during her time as executive director. As the festival gears up for this year’s edition, Chaisson’s colleagues and the entire fest production team will continue the work she started, carrying on her legacy.

Overall, while Chaisson’s departure may mark the end of an era for Hamptons Film Festival, it also paves the way for new leadership and future growth. The festival’s legacy will undoubtedly be shaped by the contributions and initiatives of Chaisson, who leaves behind a lasting impact on the organization and the film industry as a whole.