Barbara Broccoli Appointed President Of The National Film and Television School As Lord David Puttnam Becomes President Emeritus

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is delighted to announce the appointment of internationally acclaimed film producer Barbara Broccoli as the first female President in the School’s history. She succeeds Lord David Puttnam, who will take on the honorary role of President Emeritus in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the NFTS and its continued success.

The appointment marks a significant moment for the NFTS, bringing together two of the most influential figures in British cinema, as the School enters an ambitious new chapter of growth, innovation and investment in the next generation of screen talent.

One of the most respected figures in the global film industry, Barbara is only the second woman in the history of the Academy to receive the prestigious Irving G.Thalberg Memorial Award, cementing her place as one of the industry’s most influential producers. She was honoured alongside her brother, Michael G.Wilson with the Honorary Academy Award in 2024, recognising their extraordinary contribution to cinema and stewardship of the James Bond franchise established by their father, legendary producer Albert R ‘Cubby’ Broccoli.

Barbara’s appointment builds on her longstanding relationship with the NFTS and her commitment to championing emerging filmmaking talent. Her in-depth knowledge of the industry, exceptional creative achievements and passion for developing new voices will be invaluable as the School continues to strengthen its position as a world leading institution for film, television and games training.

Her presidency also comes at a particularly meaningful moment, ahead of the opening of The Cubby Broccoli Building at the School’s Beaconsfield campus in January 2027.

Officially named by Barbara earlier this year in honour of her late father, the landmark new building will provide state of the art teaching facilities, specialist creative spaces and the school’s first purpose-built, fully accessible on-site student accommodation.

Barbara Broccoli, incoming President of the NFTS said: “It’s a tremendous honour to become President of the National Film and Television School, following in Lord David Puttnam’s footsteps. Having been involved with the NFTS for many years, I have seen first-hand the extraordinary talent it develops and the vital role it plays in shaping the future of our industry. With the opening of The Cubby Broccoli Building taking place in January, this is especially meaningful. My father believed in the power of filmmaking and in giving talented people the opportunity to succeed."

Barbara succeeds Lord David Puttnam, the Oscar-winning producer whose extraordinary career includes Chariots of Fire, The Killing Fields and Midnight Express.

Since 1974 Lord Puttnam has served as a Governor, Chairman, Lecturer and finally President of the NFTS, succeeding Lord Richard Attenborough. Throughout his tenure, he has been a passionate advocate for the school, championing the importance of world-class film education and supporting the NFTS through periods of significant development and expansion.

During his nine-year presidency, the NFTS has continued to grow its international reputation, strengthen its relationships with industry and invest in cutting-edge facilities, including the opening of The Channel 4 Rose Building and Sky Studios at its main campus in Beaconsfield. Through his guidance, advocacy and many inspirational masterclasses, David Puttnam has made an invaluable contribution to the school and the students who have passed through its doors.

In recognition of his exceptional service and enduring relationship with the NFTS, he will now become President Emeritus, maintaining his valued connection with the school.

Lord Puttnam said: “I could not be happier than to be handing over the Presidency of the NFTS to my close friend Barbara. To leave the School in such good hands is repaying the last of the many debts I owe to my predecessor Richard Attenborough. My long relationship with the School, and the challenges we’ve faced and overcome has in many ways defined my career. I’d like to pay a special tribute to those many, many colleagues who have helped make the NFTS the most rewarding journey of my life.”

Sophie Turner Laing, Chair of the National Film and Television School added: “This is a landmark moment for the NFTS, and we are incredibly proud to welcome Barbara Broccoli as our first ever female President. Barbara has been a longstanding friend and supporter of the School, and her extraordinary contribution to cinema, commitment to nurturing new talent and deep understanding of our industry make her an exceptional choice to help guide the School into its next chapter. Her appointment brings an added sense of significance as we prepare to open The Cubby Broccoli Building to students, celebrating a family legacy that continues to inspire and has long championed filmmaking talent.

I also want to pay tribute to David Puttnam, whose support, wisdom and unwavering belief in the NFTS have been invaluable throughout his fifty years of active engagement with the School.

David has been a remarkable advocate, and we are eternally grateful for all he has done to support our students, staff and alumni. We are thrilled he will remain part of the NFTS community in his new role as President Emeritus.”

As one her first engagements as NFTS President, Barbara will mark the official opening of The Cubby Broccoli Building in January 2027, ushering in a new era for the NFTS as it continues to expand opportunities for emerging film, television and games talent.