Founded in 1994 by the Canadian Independent Film Caucus (which later became DOC), Hot Docs now runs Canada’s largest documentary festival, conference, and market, as well as the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, a year-round home for theatrical documentaries.
In recognition of DOC’s founding involvement, DOC maintains permanent minority representation (50%, less one seat) on the Hot Docs Board of Directors. As Hot Docs continues to rebuild following recent challenges, it will appoint seven new Directors in January 2026 and DOC is currently seeking candidates to fill three of those Board positions. Selected representatives will help to steward the organization and ensure that it remains responsive to the voices of Canada’s independent documentary community.
About Hot Docs
Hot Docs is a registered charitable organization that supports documentary filmmakers and connects audiences to outstanding non-fiction storytelling through:
- The annual Hot Docs Festival, screening over 100 documentaries from Canada and abroad.
- Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, a year-round venue focused on documentary film and an array of in-person events including Author Talks, panels and podcasts.
- Industry programs that fund, mentor, and promote documentary creators in Canada and around the world.
- Educational initiatives through Docs For Schools that bring thousands of students to our year-round cinema to enjoy documentary films.
The Role
Hot Docs’ Board members provide strategic direction, governance, and oversight to advance the organization’s mission and ensure its long-term sustainability. They contribute expertise, act as ambassadors for the organization, and support fundraising and stakeholder engagement activities.
Board terms are three years, renewable once. Meetings occur approximately five times annually, along with a yearly AGM in November. Meetings are held online and are generally 90 minutes. In this period of rebuilding, additional committee participation will require bi-monthly 60-minute meetings. Note: Board roles are voluntary and are not remunerated.
Who We’re Looking For
DOC welcomes applications from DOC members in good standing from any regional chapter and membership category who offer experience in one or more of the following areas.
- Financial management
- Legal and risk oversight
- Government Relations
- Governance
- Fundraising and advancement
- Human resources and organizational development
- Operations and business management (venue, cinema management ideal)
- Marketing and audience development
- Documentary filmmaking
- Film Industry engagement (e.g. experience with film/documentary festivals and markets)
We encourage applications from diverse communities and welcome applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Why Join the Board
- Help Hot Docs remain responsive to Canada’s independent documentary community.
- Inform the strategic direction of an internationally recognized cultural organization.
- Contribute to the growth of Canada’s documentary ecosystem.
- Collaborate with a dynamic, mission-driven board and leadership team.
- Support a platform that amplifies authentic voices and meaningful storytelling.
How to Apply
Board applications will be accepted until 5:00pm ET on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Interested candidates are invited to submit a brief statement of interest and resume to info@docorg.ca.
Please include “Hot Docs Board Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line.