July 10, 2026
Today, Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) announced that Hermione Malone is stepping down as Executive Director. Ms. Malone assumed the role of Executive Director in June 2024. In addition to overseeing our flagship festivals, she has over the last year, worked closely with the CIFF Board and the DeVos Institute of Arts Management in Washington, D.C., to lead a nine-month strategic planning process focused on reimagining the Festival for CIFF 51 and beyond.
Elements of that emerging vision were reflected in the success of CIFF 50, including a renewed focus on audience experience, Cleveland-centered programming, a return to a more neighborhood-based Festival presence, and an expansion of year-round programing.
“Hermione’s leadership helped CIFF celebrate a milestone year while also looking toward the future,” said Joe Marinucci, CIFF Board Chair. “CIFF 50 honored the Festival’s extraordinary legacy while beginning to lay the groundwork for what comes next.” In addition, the Festival expanded programming to the Cedar Lee Theatre and CSU School of Film & Media Arts, further cementing CIFF’s connection to Cleveland’s neighborhoods and arts community.
“My tenure at CIFF was focused on helping the Festival harken back to its history while also positioning for the future,” Ms. Malone said. “I’m proud of the strategic work completed this year that provides a clear path forward for the Festival to build toward CIFF 51 and beyond.”
CIFF also noted that Paul Sloop, a longtime member of CIFF’s leadership team, will continue in his role as Director of Programing and will set the artistic direction for CIFF 51. The Board will now take time, working with the strategic plan, to define the most effective leadership structure and how to achieve the visionary goals that the strategic plan describes.
“We are grateful for Hermione’s contributions and for the strong foundation created through this planning process,” said Jerry Frantz, Vice Chair, Strategic Planning. “CIFF is entering this next chapter with deep appreciation for its history, excitement about its future, and a clear commitment to building a Festival that continues to serve filmmakers, audiences, partners, and the greater Cleveland community.”