DOK.fest München director Daniel Sponsel announced this week that he will be stepping down after the next edition to take over the presidency of the University of Television and Film Munich (HFF). He will take up his new role on 1 October 2025.
Sponsel will direct the upcoming edition of the festival together with Adele Kohout. The 40th DOK.fest München runs 7 to 18 May in cinemas and online from 12 to 25 May.
Sponsel comments: “In September 2009, I joined DOK.fest München having previously been at the HFF Munich. After almost 16 intensive and successful years with the festival team, I have now come full circle. I am delighted to be returning to my roots in the film industry in this new role and to be actively involved in shaping the future of the university. First of all, I am fully committed and looking forward to the preparation and realisation of the 40th DOK.fest München.”
“The Board of the Munich International Documentary Film Festival Association, represented by Klaus Blanc, Moritz Holfelder and Michael Augustin, warmly congratulates Daniel Sponsel on his appointment. The great international success of the festival owes a great deal to his expertise and tireless commitment,” the festival writes.
“The necessary steps for the succession process for Daniel Sponsel will be initiated promptly. Adele Kohout, the current Deputy Managing Director and Co-Director, has our full confidence for the future development of the festival, ensuring continuity and stability.”
