The University Council of the HFF Munich elects Daniel Sponsel as President of the University of Television and Film Munich.
Munich, 12 February 2025 - At its meeting on 7 February 2025, the University Council of the Munich University of Television and Film (HFF) elected Daniel Sponsel as President by a large majority and will now propose him to the State Minister for Science and the Arts, Markus Blume, for appointment. Daniel Sponsel, Director of the Munich International Documentary Film Festival, is to take office on 1 October 2025 - succeeding Bettina Reitz, who was no longer available for a further term of office.
Sponsel is the second full-time president of the Munich film school after Bettina Reitz, who has been president of the HFF Munich for two terms since 2015. Arts Minister Markus Blume emphasises: "His roots lie at the HFF Munich, but his work extends far beyond that: Daniel Sponsel has turned DOK.fest München into an internationally important platform with passion and the right bite - under his leadership, the festival is chasing one audience record after the next. This shows his high level of professional expertise and the stamina of the former professional cyclist - the best prerequisites for the next stage as President of HFF Munich. Congratulations on your election!"
Daniel Sponsel on his election as the new President of HFF Munich: "Film is a comprehensive art form and of great social importance for the narration of our diverse living environments in these turbulent times. For young people who want to take responsibility with their artistic visions, the renowned HFF Munich offers a very good space for teaching and an inspiring exchange. I am delighted to be returning to the place of my roots in the film industry and to be actively involved in shaping the future of the university."
