NFVF CEO Vincent Blennies resigns just one month into role, citing ‘personal reasons'

Vincent Blennies resigned as the CEO of the NFVF just one month after his appointment due to personal reasons.
His appointment came amid instability following the resignation of former CEO Thobela Mayinje, who faced various allegations.
Despite lacking experience in the film industry, Blennies was chosen for his extensive leadership background across healthcare, telecommunications, and financial services.
Vincent Blennies resigned from his position as CEO of the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) just one month after his appointment.
The foundation said in a statement that Blennies 'has resigned from his position on 27 May 2025, for personal reasons.'
'Rest assured that we, as your Council, are addressing the matter with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and continue to work towards ensuring stability and growth within our organisation,' ended the statement by the NFVF.
In addition to his role at the new NFVF, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie appointed him to Boxing South Africa's board in November 2024.
Blennies' appointment came after former CEO Thobela Mayinje abruptly quit amid an investigation into numerous allegations.
The NFVF, backed by the DSAC, funds and helps the local film business develop, produce, market, and distribute local content.
While Blennies took on the role without a clear background or experience in the industry, the NFVF said he 'brings over 25 years of C-suite leadership experience in the healthcare, telecommunications, and financial services sectors' to the agency.
They added, 'His appointment ushers in a renewed era of stability and strategic direction.'
NFVF's new CEO, Mr Vincent Blennies, is a private sector professional and PhD candidate whose experience in telecomms, banking and fund management in the healthcare sector, will drive refreshed energy into the NFVF and lead it to deliver on its 5-year strategic plan. #LoveSAFilm pic.twitter.com/xmPVNshv8M
— National Film & Video Foundation #NFVF (@nfvfsa) April 16, 2025
The embattled foundation has experienced several crises over the years. Mayinje, who had been acting as CEO for over a year and a half, was placed on 'administrative leave' in July 2024 for an 'investigation for numerous allegations.'
Last year, McKenzie disbanded the NFVF Council, which was replaced with new board members.

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