Zurich entrepreneur and former National Councilor Doris Fiala has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors of the Zurich Film Festival with immediate effect. In this role, she will represent the ZFF publicly and help further strengthen its ties with political and business sectors. She succeeds Roger Crotti, who has stepped down from the position.
Doris Fiala had a political career spanning approximately 30 years, during which she served as a member of the Zurich City Council, while also holding a seat in the National Council for 16 years. She also held the position of President of FDP Women Switzerland. In addition to her entrepreneurial work in the communications sector, she is President of ProCinema, the national association representing Swiss cinema and film distribution companies. Now, she takes on the role of President of the Zurich Film Festival, where she will represent the festival alongside owner and festival director Christian Jungen, and contribute to networking and fundraising efforts.
«We are absolutely thrilled to have Doris Fiala, an outstanding Zurich personality with national influence, as our new President», says Jungen. «Doris is a lover of culture and cinema who has known our festival for many years. 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 chair the board, which also includes Zurich-based members Felix E. Müller, a co-owner of the festival and attorney Thomas Hügi. Her responsibilities will include representing the ZFF to the public sector, partners, and cultural professionals, as well as helping to attract new partners.
Having known the ZFF since its beginnings, Doris Fiala is excited to take on her new role, which she has accepted due to her deep appreciation for the seventh art.
«Cinemas and festivals are places where memories are shared, emotions are experienced collectively, and stories come alive. They are part of our democratic and cultural infrastructure—essential for an open, diverse, and thoughtful society», Fiala explains. «The film industry needs strong voices. That’s why it’s a personal priority for me to recognize Christian Jungen, who champions and elevates Swiss cinema with expertise, passion, and international vision.»
Born in Zurich, Doris Fiala served on the Zurich City Council from 2000 to 2007. She was a member of the Swiss delegation to the Council of Europe from 2008 to 2019 and since 2022, she has taken on the role of President of ProCinema and is a board member of the Zurich Opera House. Her commitment to the ZFF highlights her dedication to enhancing Zurich’s international presence.
«The ZFF is a cultural beacon that shines far beyond Switzerland and enjoys great recognition in Hollywood», says Doris Fiala. «It benefits not only the cultural scene but also the economy—especially the hospitality and tourism sectors—as it attracts many visitors from Switzerland and neighboring countries.»
Thanks to Roger Crotti
Doris Fiala succeeds Roger Crotti, who decided to step down as President of the festival following the sale of the Zurich Film Festival by the NZZ Media Group.
Crotti took over in early 2024 during a time of transition and led the festival with great dedication through a successful year and a half. Last year, the ZFF recorded over 140,000 attendees—the most successful edition in its history—marking a major milestone in a challenging economic climate. During this time, the organization was structurally reorganized and strategically aligned for the future.
«I wish the new owners all the best for the upcoming festival edition and for the years ahead», said Roger Crotti.
Festival Director Christian Jungen acknowledged Crotti’s contributions: «Roger enabled us to successfully conclude last year and to now present a forward-looking solution. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.»
The Zurich Film Festival expresses its sincere thanks to Roger Crotti for his tremendous dedication and service to the festival—especially during a challenging time for the industry.
