Cagney joins in newly-created role; was previously managing director of the UK Film Council

The BFI has appointed Tim Cagney to the newly-created role of deputy chief executive.

From July 7, Cagney will report directly to BFI chief executive Amanda Nevill, working closely alongside her and the BFI’s executive team to play a critical part in shaping the new BFI as the organisation transforms into the UK’s lead body for film.

Cagney joins the BFI from the UK Film Council where he was managing director from autumn 2010, prior to which he was head of UK partnerships.

Cagney’s new role will see him play an instrumental part in developing the BFI’s long-term strategy for film in the UK, leading on business planning and partnerships, including Creative England, Film London, Skillset, First Light and national screen agencies, leading and championing strategic capital projects, stimulating new business growth, and working closely with the DCMS. He will directly manage the MEDIA Desk UK and the Film Certification Unit, and will also take an active role in fundraising.

Greg Dyke, BFI chair said: “We are in an exciting time for film in the UK, a time in which the BFI takes a lead role. To achieve this we need the best possible people in the organisation and I am very confident that Tim is the right person for the challenges ahead and will work brilliantly with Amanda Nevill and the team here to take us into a bright new future.”

Amanda Nevill, chief executive, BFI said: “I’m delighted that Tim is joining the BFI in this new role. Tim has an impressive track record, is an astute and very talented business leader and has already been key in ensuring the smooth transition of new activities to the BFI. Tim will be instrumental in steering the BFI towards a new future that provides an ambitious and coherent vision for film in the UK.”

Cagney said: “It’s fantastic to be joining the BFI at such a pivotal time for film in the UK. I’m hugely excited about helping take the BFI to the next level, where a new film industry and organisational focus will help guide the BFI towards a new era for film.”

Cagney joined the UK Film Council as head of UK partnerships in 2005, leading its strategy on investment in England through the Regional Screen Agencies and working closely with Skillset on the Bigger Future Skills strategy. Later in 2010 he became acting managing director for the UK Film Council to lead on the major transition of film activities to the BFI and Film London.

He studied for a Masters as part of the International Masters in Practicing Management programme at INSEAD in France and holds a Masters in management. Cagney worked for BT for 15 years where he held senior positions in sales, marketing and strategy.