The producer and former executive director of the International Documentary Association (IDA) will lead the Washington DC-based annual event AFI DOCS.

“Michael is uniquely qualified to lead AFI DOCS into the future,” said AFI president and CEO Bob Gazzale.

“His is a life lived at the heart of the documentary community and we are proud to know he’ll be overseeing AFI’s efforts to bring together America’s leading artists with its nation’s leaders – elevating the art form’s ability to effect change.”

“I’m honoured to be joining one of the world’s top film organizations and expanding the rich history and proud tradition of AFI DOCS,” said Lumpkin. “Six wonderful years at IDA solidified my passion for documentary films, and I look forward to bringing that passion to AFI.”

Lumpkin has served for six years as the executive director of IDA and before that served for more than 25 years as both executive director of Frameline and San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival director.

AT&T is returning as presenting sponsor. The 2015 festival will take place from July 17-21.