TORONTO — The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is ramping up preparations for the launch of its new market initiative with the appointment of four key executives to its leadership team. Set to debut in September 2026, TIFF Market aims to foster global connections in the film industry, and these hires are expected to play a pivotal role in its success. The announcements come as the festival continues to solidify its position as a major hub for independent cinema and international deal-making.
Rahul Raman has been named Senior Director of Market Sales & Partnerships. With more than 20 years of experience in revenue growth, strategic alliances, and international market expansion, Raman previously worked with prominent organizations including Discovery Networks, Sony Entertainment, and Disney Star. According to TIFF officials, his primary focus will be on structuring partnerships, developing scalable revenue models, and encouraging global participation in the new market.
Joining Raman is James Gambhir, appointed as Senior Director of Business Enablement & Operations. Gambhir brings a background in senior leadership from financial giants such as BMO Financial Group, RBC Capital Markets, and Scotiabank Global Banking & Markets. In these roles, he led large-scale modernization programs and delivered operational efficiencies in collaboration with executive teams, skills that TIFF believes will streamline the market's rollout.
Nicole Chrysostom-Murray steps into the role of Director of Marketing & Communications. She offers extensive expertise in crafting multi-channel marketing and communications campaigns. Before joining TIFF, Chrysostom-Murray managed domestic and international marketing efforts for eOne Television and contributed to launching the careers of acclaimed artists under Sony Music Entertainment. Her experience is seen as crucial for promoting the market to a worldwide audience.
Devon Mallory, with a 15-year tenure at TIFF in areas like web development, event ticketing, and information technology, has been promoted to Director of Digital. In this capacity, he will oversee the online experience for market attendees, including the selection, implementation, and maintenance of platforms, systems, and software designed to enhance user engagement. Mallory's long history with the organization positions him well to integrate digital tools seamlessly into the market's operations.
These new leaders will report directly to Charles Tremblay, Head of TIFF: The Market. They will also collaborate with recently promoted TIFF veterans, including Geoff Macnaughton, Vice President of Market Programming & Theatrical; Jane Kim, Director of Market Programming & Creator Development; and Brittany Allan, Director of Market Experience. This expanded team reflects TIFF's commitment to blending fresh perspectives with institutional knowledge as it prepares for the 2026 launch.
"I am thrilled to welcome these talented professionals to our senior leadership team," Tremblay said in a statement. He was speaking from the European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin, where he is currently attending alongside Raman. "Each brings a proven track record of success that will be instrumental in accelerating the momentum for our launch and supporting our long-term vision."
The creation of TIFF Market represents a significant evolution for the festival, which has long been a cornerstone of the North American film calendar since its inception in 1976. Traditionally known for its premieres of award-contending films—such as last year's People's Choice Award winner Hamnet, often seen as an Oscar predictor—TIFF is now expanding into a dedicated market to rival established events like the American Film Market and the EFM itself. Officials say the new initiative will provide a platform for buyers, sellers, and creators to network and close deals in a city renowned for its vibrant film community.
Background on the market's development traces back to announcements in late 2025, when TIFF revealed plans to introduce this component amid a post-pandemic recovery in the industry. The festival, which draws over 500,000 attendees annually to venues across Toronto, has weathered challenges including labor disputes and shifts in distribution models. By bolstering its leadership, TIFF aims to address these dynamics and position the market as a go-to destination for emerging global content.
Raman's international pedigree is particularly noteworthy. His work with Disney Star, for instance, involved navigating complex media landscapes in South Asia, where he helped forge partnerships that expanded content reach to millions. Similarly, Gambhir's financial sector experience could bring rigorous operational frameworks to an industry often criticized for inefficiencies in production and distribution pipelines.
Chrysostom-Murray's marketing background adds another layer. At eOne Television, she handled campaigns for high-profile series that reached international audiences, demonstrating an ability to adapt strategies across borders. Her Sony Music work, promoting artists who later achieved global acclaim, underscores her knack for building buzz around creative talent— a skillset directly applicable to spotlighting filmmakers and projects at TIFF Market.
Mallory's internal promotion highlights TIFF's strategy of leveraging homegrown expertise. Over his 15 years, he has been instrumental in digitizing festival operations, from online ticketing systems that sold out screenings in minutes to web platforms that engaged virtual audiences during the height of the COVID-19 restrictions. Ensuring a "seamless online experience," as described by officials, will be vital as the market incorporates hybrid elements to accommodate international participants.
The timing of these hires coincides with Tremblay's presence at the EFM, Europe's largest film market, held annually in Berlin during the Berlinale. This move signals TIFF's proactive engagement in the global circuit, scouting talent and partnerships ahead of its own debut. Industry observers note that while TIFF has hosted market-like activities in the past, a formalized structure could elevate Toronto's profile, potentially attracting more investment from streaming giants and traditional studios alike.
Broader implications for the Canadian film sector are significant. TIFF, supported by federal and provincial funding, contributes millions to Toronto's economy each year through tourism and related spending. The new market could amplify this impact, creating jobs in sales, programming, and digital services while fostering opportunities for Canadian creators to connect with international buyers. As Jane Kim's role in creator development suggests, there's an emphasis on nurturing diverse voices, aligning with TIFF's history of championing inclusive programming.
Looking ahead, the leadership team faces the task of building out the market's programming and infrastructure in the coming months. With the festival's 2026 edition approaching, expectations are high for a launch that not only complements the cinematic showcase but also drives tangible business outcomes. As Tremblay and his colleagues continue to recruit and strategize, the film world watches closely to see how TIFF Market will carve its niche in a competitive landscape.
For now, these appointments mark a confident step forward, blending seasoned expertise with innovative drive. As the industry rebounds from recent upheavals, including strikes and economic pressures, initiatives like this underscore TIFF's adaptability and ambition.