Doris Fiala has been appointed chair of the board of directors of the Zurich Film Festival, assuming the role with immediate effect. She replaces Roger Crotti, who stepped down following the festival’s sale by the NZZ Media Group.

A former member of the Swiss National Council and long-time Zurich entrepreneur, Fiala will represent the ZFF publicly and work to strengthen its connections with the political and business communities. Her responsibilities will include strategic networking, fundraising, and liaising with partners and public stakeholders. She will serve alongside festival owner and director Christian Jungen.

Fiala’s political career spans three decades, including 16 years in the National Council and prior service on the Zurich City Council. She is also president of ProCinema, the Swiss cinema and film distribution association, and sits on the board of the Zurich Opera House.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have Doris Fiala, an outstanding Zurich personality with national influence, as our new president,” said Jungen. “She has an extensive network across politics, business and society, and her drive and enthusiasm serve as an additional source of motivation for the entire team at ZFF.”

Fiala will lead a board that includes journalist Felix E. Müller, a co-owner of the festival, and Zurich-based attorney Thomas Hügi.

“The ZFF is a cultural beacon that shines far beyond Switzerland and enjoys great recognition in Hollywood,” said Fiala. “It benefits not only the cultural scene but also the economy—especially the hospitality and tourism sectors.”

Crotti, who took on the role in early 2024, helped steer the festival through a transitional period. Under his leadership, the ZFF recorded over 140,000 attendees last year, its most successful edition to date.

“Roger enabled us to successfully conclude last year and to now present a forward-looking solution,” said Jungen.

The 21st Zurich Film Festival will run from September 25 to October 5, 2025.