Simone Baumann Extended As Managing Director Of German Films

Simone Baumann’s contract as managing director of German Films has been extended for another five years, by the promotional body’s supervisory board.

The extension comes as the organization promoting German cinema worldwide celebrates the 70th anniversary of its creation.

“Simone Baumann has successfully managed the fortunes of German Films since 2019, including during the pandemic, with wisdom, foresight and great commitment,” said Chair Philipp Kreuzer.

“Under her leadership, the German Films team has launched and overseen new initiatives, organised successful Oscar campaigns and bolstered the international networking activities,” he added. “ We are delighted that Simone Baumann will be accompanying German Films for another five years to successfully master the upcoming challenges for German cinema abroad.“

Baumann studied Philosophy in the Russian city of Rostov-on Don and then worked as a research assistant at the Humboldt University in Berlin.

She broken into film via documentary at German broadcaster MDR in Dresden, before becoming a partner in the Leipzig-based company LE Vision Film- und Fernsehproduktion in 1997. She was then head of the documentary department of Saxonia Entertainment GmbH from 2011 to 2019.

“These are turbulent times, but German cinema need not fear comparison. Apart from internationally renowned filmmakers, we have many new talents who will be making a name for themselves in the coming years. Accompanying them on their journey to the world stage is a big challenge and an interesting task,” said Baumann of her continuing role.

Baumann’s extension took effect as of 1 February, 2024.