Short Film News (SFN) - Webster University professor and film director, Mike Steinberg will assume the job of Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Director.

"We are extremely fortunate to be bringing Mike on as Director," said Big Sky Programming Director and Founder, Doug Hawes-Davis. "He clearly has the knowledge and skills to move our event forward as a destination for filmmakers, distributors, and film fans alike."

Several of Steinberg's independent films had their World Premieres at Big Sky. He has also served as a juror and associate programmer for the festival.

He will continue to direct and program the Webster Film Series, the alternative film venue in St Louis he has directed for the last five years.

Steinberg said, "It's been a thrill to work with the Big Sky staff in the past, and I am really excited about returning to Missoula to help steer the festival into the next chapter of its evolution."

He will begin the job with the festival in its sixth year. The 2009 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival will be held Wilma Theater in Missoula, Montana and will expand to 10 days of screenings, panels, and special events.