Canyon Cinema seeks a new Distribution & Collections Manager to oversee the operation of our distribution program for artist-member works as well as the conservation and management of our film print, digital media, and paper collections. This is a full-time, permanent position, based out of our office located in Bayview–Hunters Point in San Francisco, California. The complete job description, list of qualifications, and information on how to apply can be found below. Application review begins October 28 and will continue until the position is filled.
About Canyon Cinema Foundation: Founded in Bruce Baillie’s backyard in 1961, Canyon Cinema Foundation is dedicated to educating the public about independent, non-commercial, experimental, avant-garde, and artist-made moving images. We manifest this commitment by providing access to our unrivaled collection to universities and cultural organizations worldwide, as well as cultivating scholarship and appreciation of artist-made cinema. We ensure the experience of rare film works in their original medium while also reaching new audiences through our growing digital distribution program.
Job Description
The Distribution & Collections Manager is responsible for operation of Canyon Cinema’s distribution program for artist-member’s works in the circulating collection and for oversight and care of all Canyon Cinema Foundation collections. Responsibilities include, 1. Operation of the distribution program, including licensing, loan and sales of moving image media to film exhibitors, educational institutions, museums, festivals, etc.; 2. Providing services to Canyon Cinema artist-members, including care for works on deposit, reporting on distribution activity; 3. Collection Management, including maintaining collections data and records management, conservation for diverse moving image media formats; 4. On-site daily operations including training and supervision of interns and volunteers, shipping and receiving, equipment maintenance, customer service.
Responsibilities
Distribution Program
– In collaboration with the Director manage all distribution-related correspondence, via email and phone, in a timely and professional manner.
– Provide assistance to customers (including film exhibitors and programmers, educators, curators, etc.)
– Preparation and fulfillment of bookings for film prints and digital media
– Invoicing and payments
– Print Traffic – managing all distribution-related shipping
– Facilitating research and preview requests.
– Maintain working familiarity with current moving image exhibition best practices
Collection Management
– Conservation and management of film print, digital media and paper collections
– Intellectual Management of Collections: managing databases, cataloging, metadata, print inspection records
– Digital Asset Management: managing digital media related to the collection, including exhibition and access copies of moving image and film still files
– Maintain and collect materials ancillary to works in distribution, i.e. transcriptions, translations, subtitle files, artists’ writing or biographies
Minimum Qualifications
– Training and Experience in the proper handling and care of 16mm film and digital materials
– Experience with the workings of artisanal and artists’ media processes
– Fluency in both analogue and digital media exhibition practices
– Familiarity with current media distribution practices
– Interest in working with media artists and their practical needs
– Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
– Master’s degree or equivalent credentialed training in moving image archives, media archiving and preservation – or equivalent work experience
– Experience in media arts and/or repertory cinema programming and exhibition
– Knowledge of Bay Area film and media culture, or of experimental film history and culture
– Experience in nonprofit arts administration
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your interest in the position and your ability to meet the required qualifications. Application materials should be emailed to:
info@canyoncinema.com. Applications will be reviewed beginning October 28, 2024 until the position is filled with the expectation of a December start date.
Canyon Cinema Foundation is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, equity in employment, accessibility, and inclusivity. Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are welcome and strongly encouraged to apply.
