The Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) has announced the appointment of Jackie Brenneman as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal leadership transition for the global organization that represents the independent film and television sector and produces the influential American Film Market (AFM®). Brenneman will succeed Jean Prewitt, who is stepping down after an extraordinary 25-year tenure that helped shape the modern independent marketplace.
Brenneman brings to IFTA a rare blend of legal acumen, public policy expertise, nonprofit leadership, and deep entertainment industry experience. Her appointment arrives at a moment of rapid transformation across the global film and television ecosystem, as independent companies navigate consolidation, evolving financing models, and new pathways for production, sales, and distribution. With her proven ability to lead through industry disruption, Brenneman is widely regarded as uniquely positioned to guide IFTA and AFM into their next chapter.
Most notably, Brenneman spent nearly a decade with National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), rising to Executive Vice President and General Counsel. In that role, she became a trusted strategic leader for the exhibition community during one of the most turbulent periods in cinema history. Her portfolio included competition and regulatory matters, copyright and trade policy advocacy, revenue and partnership development, and large-scale event leadership. She also played a critical role in the industry’s response to the termination of the Paramount Consent Decrees, a defining moment in exhibition history.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Brenneman led NATO’s industry relief efforts, including the nationally recognized Save Our Screens initiative, while also serving as President of The Cinema Foundation, NATO’s nonprofit arm dedicated to advancing the cultural and economic impact of theatrical exhibition. Her leadership during this period cemented her reputation as a steady, forward-thinking executive capable of balancing creative, commercial, and public-interest priorities.
More recently, Brenneman served as CEO of Attend, a first-of-its-kind theatrical marketplace designed to connect independent filmmakers directly with exhibitors to expand distribution opportunities. She also became a founding partner of The Fithian Group, further deepening her work at the intersection of independent content, business strategy, and market access. Earlier in her career, she practiced trademark and copyright law at Foley & Lardner LLP, providing her with a strong legal foundation that continues to inform her executive leadership.
Paul Bales, Chairperson of IFTA and Partner & COO of The Asylum, praised Brenneman’s appointment, noting her “industry insight, legal and lobbying expertise, and proven record of guiding complex membership organizations.” He emphasized her deep understanding of how business, public affairs, and creative communities intersect—an increasingly vital skill set as independent companies face mounting structural and economic challenges.
Brenneman herself described the moment as transformational for the independent sector. She emphasized that independent film and television have always been defined by risk-taking and innovation, and that today’s environment—marked by new financing structures and evolving distribution models—creates an opportunity for independents to lead the next phase of industry change. She credited IFTA’s strong foundation and expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with members and global partners to ensure AFM remains the premier destination for dealmaking and independent creativity.
Her appointment also serves as a moment of reflection and gratitude for Jean Prewitt’s legacy. Over 25 years, Prewitt significantly expanded IFTA’s influence in both U.S. and international policy arenas, championed the interests of independent producers and distributors, and elevated the American Film Market into one of the world’s most important film and television business events. Under her leadership, AFM became a cornerstone of global independent dealmaking, generating billions in financing and distribution agreements.
As Brenneman prepares to step into the role, IFTA enters its next era positioned for growth, innovation, and continued global relevance—anchored by strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to the independent creative community.
Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography
7 Key Takeaways
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Jackie Brenneman has been named the next President & CEO of IFTA, succeeding Jean Prewitt after 25 years
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Brenneman brings extensive experience in exhibition, legal affairs, public policy, and nonprofit leadership
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She previously served as Executive VP & General Counsel at NATO and led major pandemic relief efforts
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Her leadership includes CEO roles at Attend and The Cinema Foundation
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Brenneman is recognized for guiding organizations through periods of industry disruption and change
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Jean Prewitt leaves a lasting legacy, having elevated IFTA and AFM into global industry powerhouses
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The transition signals a strategic new chapter for IFTA and the global independent film & TV community
About the Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®)
The Independent Film & Television Alliance® (IFTA®) is the global trade association for independent film and television production, finance, distribution, and sales companies. IFTA represents the independent sector before governments and international bodies and provides critical industry services to member companies across more than 20 countries. Each November, IFTA produces the American Film Market® (AFM®), the world’s largest motion picture business event, generating over $1 billion annually in distribution and film financing deals.
Learn more:
www.IFTA-online.org
Report Lela Christine
