Markus Duffner, head of Locarno Pro
The Locarno Film industry has named long-time collaborator Markus Duffner as the new head of its industry programme Locarno Pro, with effect from January 2021.
He replaces Paris-based producer Valentina Merli who held the position for one year but has left to return to producing.
Duffner will be supported by Sophie Bourdon, who takes on the position of deputy head of Locarno Pro alongside her long-time role as head of Open Doors, the festival’s programme aimed at nurturing cinema from the global south and east.
Nadia Dresti, who initially spearheaded Locarno’s industry activities in 2000 and oversaw the programme until 2018, will also lend her expertise under the title of international advisor.