Welcome to the Team Spotlight Series, where we share an insight into the incredible people that make up Together Films and amplify their talents and passions within the world of social impact storytelling.
Our final team spotlight of the year is here and this month, we shine the spotlight on Jess, our Head of International Sales & Acquisitions.
Pronouns: She/Her
Role at Together Films: ‘As the Sales & Acquisitions Manager, I acquire exceptional films for our sales slate and lead the commercial strategy, working with distributors and buyers worldwide to ensure our titles reach the widest possible audience. When I’m not in London or Folkestone, you’ll likely find me representing our films at international markets and festivals!’
Industry background:
‘I joined Together Films in September 2023. Prior to that, I was the Head of Sales & Acquisitions at Espresso Media, where I spearheaded sales and acquisitions for a slate of 900 hours of documentaries. I sold finished films and developed projects for pre-sales in the international marketplace. Over the years, my expertise has spanned distribution, acquisitions, sales, development, business affairs, marketing strategy, and deliveries.’
A Fun Fact:
‘In my early 20s, I started a documentary night called “Doc Eat Doc World” in Brighton, where I curated film screenings featuring some of the best festival documentaries and organised talks with relevant organisations connected to the films’ themes. A stand out screening was The Grown-Ups by Maite Alberdi. We hosted a talk with a local charity called Gig Buddies, which pairs people with and without learning disabilities in Sussex to be friends and attend events together. Proceeds from the night went to Gig Buddies, and it was a really wonderful event!’
Favourite Films:
My Life as a Courgette
Life is Beautiful
Mustang
Flee
Step Brothers
Favourite Moment at Together Films:
‘It’s very hard to pick one, but probably being at the SXSW premiere of AN ARMY OF WOMEN. The film is set in Austin, so having the film premiere in its home town, to a captivated audience was a really moving experience. We had a jam-packed week of screenings, meetings and press, and getting to know the incredible protagonists in the film was a real highlight.’
Why Social Impact Entertainment Matters:
‘Social impact entertainment is powerful because it emotionally engages audiences, offering them a way into real-world issues. Through powerful storytelling and compelling narratives, films can change perspectives, increase awareness, and inspire action, encouraging individuals and communities to contribute to positive change.’
Jess powers the sales arm of Together Films and is a crucial part in amplifying stories that need to be heard. Outside of her 9-5, Jess continues to pursue her passion for film by being part of the Folkestone Film Festival team. This year she had a hand in selecting THE WALK for opening night of the festival, a film we are proud to represent for international sales.
