MUMBAI: Joana Vicente will serve as interim executive director of IFP after Michelle Byrd stepped down from her chair after 16 years.

Vicente currently serves on the board of IFP and is part of the executive search committee to replace Byrd.She will take over as executive director effective 1 December and work with Byrd throughout the month of to ensure a smooth transition.

She will remain interim executive director until the search committee finds a permanent replacement. During this time she will manage the IFP, continue fundraising efforts, and develop and implement key elements of the body's strategic plan.

Said IFP board chairman Jeffrey Levy-Hinte, "Michelle has been with the organization for 16 years and filling her shoes has proven to be a Herculean task.

"Her long standing commitment to and intimate knowledge of IFP, as well as her business, film, and non-profit experience makes her an extremely qualified candidate for the position."