Freelance Lead Talent Wrangler (TIFF Studio)

This is a Freelance Job

TheWrap is seeking an experienced, highly organized Freelance Lead Talent Wrangler to manage on-site talent logistics and management for our Interview and Portrait Studio during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and is comfortable working directly with A-list talent, publicists, and production teams.

You will receive a full handoff including the live master schedule, active publicist and agent relationships, pitch status, and confirmed talent and carry the pre-festival workload through to the opening days of the festival.

Key Responsibilities on-the-ground:
• Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for all talent, publicists, and representatives arriving at TheWrap's studio
• Manage and actively adjust a pre-built run-of-show for interviews and portrait sessions in real time, accounting for early/late arrivals and shifting priorities
• Coordinate the flow of talent between interview and portrait setups, making quick decisions to optimize efficiency and minimize wait times
• Communicate continuously with interviewers, photographers, videographers, and timekeepers to ensure sessions stay on schedule (or are adjusted as needed)
• Troubleshoot scheduling conflicts on the fly, including overlapping bookings, shortened interview windows, and last-minute additions
• Oversee large group arrivals (including full casts and teams), ensuring smooth movement in and out of the studio space
• Maintain a calm, professional, and welcoming environment for high-profile talent, ensuring they are comfortable and supported throughout their time on-site
• Liaise with publicists and reps to manage expectations, timing, and any special requests
• Make real-time judgment calls to prioritize talent and maximize studio output

Qualifications:
• Prior experience in talent wrangling, festival production, studio management, or live event coordination
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to multitask and reprioritize quickly
• Strong communication skills and confidence working with high-profile talent and senior industry professionals
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and make quick, strategic decisions
• Experience managing schedules and coordinating across multiple teams simultaneously
• Familiarity with film festivals, press junkets, or studio environments is highly preferred

Additional Notes:
• This is a high-energy, high-stakes environment requiring flexibility, quick thinking, and a proactive mindset
• Candidates should be comfortable being on their feet for extended periods and navigating a busy, crowded studio space