Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos
Film Commissioner
As the Ottawa Film Commissioner, I am passionate about promoting Ottawa as an affordable boutique destination and experience for filmmakers, developing the local film industry and its infrastructure, and supporting the diverse and talented producers, crew, and talent in the national capital of Canada. With over 20+ years of experience in the entertainment sector, I have an extensive illustrative career in film, broadcasting, production, co-production, creative development and distribution with impressive global relationships and deep experience in deals & negotiations, 360° all covered.
Prior to joining the Ottawa Film Office, I worked in sales and distribution at CBC/Radio-Canada, growing their kids’ catalogue offering. I also co-founded Rocket Launch Media and Sanden Media, where I created and distributed engaging and pristine content for kids and families, based on published book properties and original IPs. Further, I handled co-production, acquisition, creative development, programming, gaming, and sales at TFO, a Franco-Ontario multiplatform broadcaster. I also spent nine years with Bejuba! Entertainment as EVP of Sales & Acquisitions, building a catalogue of over 600 half-hours of kids’ TV and secured co-development and co-production deals. Prior to Bejuba, I worked in NYC for 10+ years for an array of major entertainment companies in creative development, co-production, and distribution. This includes Sunbow Entertainment (Transformers, My Little Pony, G.I. Joe, etc.), Sony Wonder/Sony Music, TV-Loonland, Hallmark, and Classic Media/Dreamworks. While at Classic Media/Dreamworks, I spearheaded WW sales and co-productions on Casper, George of the Jungle, and other titles.
I am also very much involved in the industry as I regularly participate in various festivals and organizations as a juror, mentor, panelist, and research adviser.
I am dedicated to using my creative, leadership skills and, negotiation abilities, with a human touch, to choose and execute projects that align with my vision of diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in the film industry.