SIFF Announces Staff Layoffs

SEATTLE – SIFF announced staff layoffs today in response to current financial strains. The staff reductions will impact 21% of its administrative staff, 9 total roles, are spread across multiple departments in the organization, and include a reduction in hours for hourly staff.

SIFF Executive Director Tom Mara stated, “We are deeply saddened to say farewell to staff members whose dedication and hard work have made SIFF what it is. This is a difficult decision that we have done everything we can to avoid, but we view it as necessary to continue to carry out SIFF’s mission during a financially challenging time for SIFF and for arts nonprofits across the country.”

SIFF says it will continue playing a vital role in the communities it serves while undergoing an operational review and making adjustments where needed to strengthen processes and streamline finances. These plans have coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, economic uncertainty and subsequent variability experienced by arts organizations nationwide.

Mara continued, “SIFF leadership has been addressing the need to cut expenses in an intensive way since the summer of 2024: reducing administrative costs and significantly scaling back on expenses relating to our annual Seattle International Film Festival. We will continue to work closely with our board to ensure financial sustainability and safeguard the SIFF’s work within Seattle and the film industry moving forward.”

For more about administrative changes at SIFF, visit the FAQ.

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About SIFF:
Beginning in 1976 with the annual Seattle International Film Festival, then expanding into year-round programming, SIFF is a 501c3 cultural arts organization dedicated to the creation of vibrant experiences and spaces that champion film discovery and arts education. SIFF envisions a thriving arts ecosystem where film discovery encourages a more empathetic, joyful, and connected world.

In its four theaters, SIFF offers year-round screenings, Film Talks and a series of spotlight festivals throughout the year. SIFF also serves the community through educational programs and SIFFsupports, a partnership program that hosts and provides technical support to a variety of special screenings and festivals.

For showtimes and event updates, visit siff.net.