Sarah Simonds
About Sarah Simonds
Sarah Simonds serves as the Director of Operations at SIFF, where she has worked since 2017. With extensive experience in theatre operations across various film festivals, she advocates for equal rights in sports and has played a key role in organizational rebuilding during the pandemic.
Current Role at SIFF
Sarah Simonds has served as the Director of Operations at the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) since 2017. In this role, she oversees the operational aspects of the festival, managing a diverse team of over 70 employees, including both seasonal and regular staff. Her responsibilities encompass cinema operations and volunteer programs, ensuring that the festival runs smoothly and efficiently. Simonds has played a key role in implementing updated procedures for reopening, which include diversity and inclusion training and crisis de-escalation protocols.
Previous Experience at Sundance Institute
Prior to her current position, Sarah Simonds worked at the Sundance Institute in various capacities from 2011 to 2017. She held roles such as Theatre Operations Associate Manager and Manager of Theatre Operations, where she contributed to the management of theatre operations during the Sundance Film Festival. Her experience at Sundance included collaborating with board members and leadership to develop sustainable operational strategies, particularly during challenging periods such as the pandemic.
Volunteer Coordination and Management Roles
Sarah Simonds has extensive experience in volunteer coordination and management. She served as Volunteer Coordinator for the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival in 2013 and held various roles at the festival in previous years. Additionally, she worked as a Theatre Operations Manager at Milwaukee Film and as a Venue Manager at SIFF, where she was responsible for overseeing venue operations and managing volunteer staff.
Education and Academic Background
Sarah Simonds earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History of Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her academic background has provided her with a strong foundation for her career in film festival operations and management, allowing her to apply analytical skills to her roles in the industry.
Advocacy for Equal Rights in Sports
In addition to her professional roles, Sarah Simonds is passionate about advocating for equal rights and opportunities for women and queer athletes in traditionally male-dominated sports such as hockey, football, and soccer. This advocacy reflects her commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity both within and outside the film industry.