Isabel Davis to become Director of BFI Filmmaking Funds

Davis joins the BFI in its key film funding role in October 2026 for a five-year fixed term after eight years as Executive Director of Screen Scotland.

She will manage the £20m annual BFI Filmmaking Funds and spearhead the BFI’s strategic leadership work to support the UK independent filmmakers.

Davis takes over from Mia Bays, the outgoing Director of the Filmmaking Fund, who has led the fund since October 2021. During this time, Bays has overseen BFI backing for features such as the BAFTA winning Kneecap and My Father’s Shadow.

“I’m honoured to be stepping into this role at a time when this public funding is critical to building a successful future for UK film and the public value it represents,” Davis said. “It’s a challenging moment for UK independent film, economically and structurally. But audience appetite for great stories, and for the communal experience of cinema-going, is strikingly resurgent and our filmmaking talent continues to be among the world’s best.”

Ben Roberts, CEO of BFI, said: “Isabel is tenacious when it comes to doing the right thing for UK independent film and filmmakers. This is such a huge job, a cornerstone of UK independent film, and Isabel brings experience, passion, and a national and a global outlook, and a firm commitment to fairness and public service. She will be an asset to the film community and the BFI.” 

The British Film Institute (BFI) recently pledged £11.85m funding over three years to support skills development and training across the UK. Discover more here.