Internship Programme Operations
International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) presents a leading film festival and year-round programme. We support new and adventurous filmmaking talent not just in the screening room, but also through initiatives such as CineMart, the Hubert Bals Fund, Rotterdam Lab and other industry activities. In January each year, we bring together emerging and established filmmakers and artists from around the world to showcase a visionary programme of independent films, talks, exhibitions, performances, installations, immersive media and more. IFFR attracts over 300,000 visits to screenings and events annually.
In January/February 2026, we will celebrate the 55th edition of our 11-day festival, and we are looking for an enthusiastic intern for Programme Operations. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience at one of the largest film festivals in the Netherlands!
About the internship
The Programme Operations team supports the programme research phase and ensures the smooth delivery of IFFR’s festival programme. We translate the programmers’ creative ideas into a concrete festival schedule by managing submissions, maintaining contact with filmmakers and rights holders, inviting and confirming selected films, clearing screening rights, registering essential data for publications and coordinating all film traffic. Programme Operations is the operational link between programming and execution.
As an intern, you’ll support both the research and realisation of the IFFR 2026 film programme. You’ll take ownership of a portfolio of film selections and be involved in the full journey of those films from confirmation to screening. You’ll also assist with the daily operations of the team and gain insight into how a major international film festival is organised behind the scenes.
Good to know: the internship focusses on operations, not film selection or curation.
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What will you do?
- Processing film submissions in our database (Fiona).
- Liaising with filmmakers and selection committee members.
- Inviting selected films and clearing screening rights.
- Gathering and entering film data for online and printed publications.
- Acting as a key contact for filmmakers and rights holders.
- Coordinating film print traffic.
- Supporting test screenings, troubleshooting and assisting filmmakers during the festival – plus, you’ll get to watch films too!
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Who are you?
- You’re studying in the field of Media Studies, Film Studies, Film History, Cultural Studies, Creative Business, or a related area in the Netherlands.
- You’re organised, detail-oriented, curious, proactive and a strong communicator.
- You’re digitally savvy and comfortable learning new tools and systems quickly.
- Basic knowledge of film formats or projection is a plus, but not required.
- You’re confident in communicating in English, both in speech and writing.
- You have a student OV-chipcard or live in the Rotterdam area.
- You are available to work at our office in the heart of Rotterdam and don’t mind occasionally working irregular hours, especially in the run-up to and during the festival. Flexibility is key in this internship.
Good to know
- December and January are peak months. Your presence is essential during this time.
- You’ll need to be available on weekends during the festival.
- This internship focuses on operations, not film selection or curation.
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What do we offer?
- A hands-on internship within the Programme Operations team for 5-6 months, at least 5 days per week.
- An inspiring work environment in the film industry, full of energy and learning opportunities.
- The chance to gain behind-the-scenes experience at an international film festival.
- An internship allowance of €375 gross per month, based on a 38-hour workweek (5 days).
- The opportunity to be part of an enthusiastic team and contribute to an unforgettable festival full of films, events and parties!
Excited to join us?
Would you like to be part of IFFR? Send us your motivation letter and CV via the link below before 19 May 2025. We look forward to your application!
If you have any questions about this internship, please contact Lesley Yoon, Coordinator Programme Operations, via l.yoon@IFFR.com.
We kindly ask you to apply for one internship only. If you’re also interested in another role, feel free to mention this in your application.
Inclusivity at IFFR
IFFR is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels welcome, regardless of ethnic, economic, cultural or religious background, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability. We encourage all interested candidates to apply.
Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.