With only a few days to go before its 23rd edition, the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival (NIFFF) announces the passing of its presidential torch. After 5 successful years of collaboration with Nathalie Randin, the festival is thrilled to start working with her successor, State Councilor Baptiste Hurni, who will take up his duties from July 14th.
BAPTISTE HURNI, NEW NIFFF PRESIDENT
As soon as this year’s edition comes to an end, lawyer and member of the Council of States Baptiste Hurni will become the new NIFFF President. As a native of Neuchâtel, he went to school and studied here before graduating from the prestigious King’s College London with a Master’s in Advanced Studies. He then passed the bar exam and became an associate of JSM & Partners. Baptiste Hurni is most famous for his political career. At 18, he became Municipal and General Councilor. He remained a member of the Grand Council for 12 years and played an essential role in the Socialist Party of Neuchâtel. He has been an elected official of the Federal Assembly since 2019, first as a National Councilor, and then (since 2023) as a State Councilor.
A COLLABORATION THAT PROMISES TO BE FRUITFUL
The NIFFF board and committee are delighted to welcome Baptiste Hurni, whose renowned competence is sure to birth a rich collaboration. He is set to continue the work started by Nathalie Randin in order to institutionalize and professionalize the festival’s structure, which is looking for stability in the face of increasing attendance numbers. The organizers would also like to emphasize the fact that it is thanks to Nathalie Randin’s leadership and the commitment of everyone on the team that the festival was able to weather the COVID-19 storm.
“The NIFFF is both deeply rooted in Neuchâtel and a major international event. While I am eager to start acting as its new president, I also know the role comes with great responsibility. Expectations are equal to the festival’s standing. I look forward to contributing to this adventure in a consistent yet unique manner.”
Baptiste Hurni
The transition will happen during the 23rd edition’s Opening Ceremony on Friday, July 5th, 2024, but will only become official once the edition is over. The festival’s organizers wish to warmly welcome Baptiste Hurni and thank Nathalie Randin for her commitment and unwavering support throughout her presidency.