In Atlanta's local film industry, getting your foot in the door is typically not a literal first step—but for Theo Lowe, an introduction to the Atlanta Film Society really was that simple. He began as a volunteer door holder for a Filmmaker-in-Residence screening in the summer of last year. Later selected to join the staff as a Programming Associate, Theo watched hundreds of submissions for the 40th anniversary ATLFF, drawing on his lifelong passion for storytelling and Black film to provide feedback and analysis.

Prior to switching gears to pursue a life in film and a B.A. in Film and Media Studies from Arizona State University, Theo managed logistics teams for billion dollar companies like Xerox and Gulfstream Aerospace. Paired with his work ethic and eye for the ATLFS mission, this experience set him apart as an ideal choice for the organization's first Operations Manager. Though it required he catch up to an already moving machine, Theo accepted the role in March of this year, managing operations for the largest and most demanding festival in our history.

"Theo's foresight, leadership and initiative is exactly what ATLFS needs to expand on our record-breaking season and continue to grow. His expedient journey within the organization is testament to the impact he's made already, and we are very fortunate and proud that he's assumed this new responsibility," said Christopher Escobar, ATLFS Executive Director.

As Operations Director, Theo looks forward to creating growth opportunities for his team, setting solutions in motion, and developing practices that improve patron experience. Join us in welcoming Theo to our Directorial team!