Julie-Jeanne Régnault to front European Producers Club

During the Berlinale it was announced that Julie-Jeanne Régnault, the successful General Secretary of the European Film Agency Directors association (EFAD) would step in as Managing Director at the European Producers Club (EPC).

EPC is a network of nearly 200 leading independent film and TV producers from across Europe. It was founded 32 years ago in the context of the trade negotiations at the time and the battle for preserving the Cultural Exception. A cause that remains high on the agenda.

The platform has been growing steadily over the last years under the leadership of the former Managing Director, Alexandra Lebret, and former Presidents like Gudny Hummelvoll from Norway and Marco Chimenz from Italy. Today, the EPC President is Polish producer and filmmaker Dariusz Jablonski.

The association’s mission is to advocate for a strong and diverse audiovisual ecosystem that is truly European, rooted in cooperation, cultural diversity, and innovation. Fostering collaboration and co-production is at the heart of the EPC — not only as a financial and creative tool, but also as a political commitment to collaboration across borders. The organisation closely follows up the European developments, ensuring that independent producers remain at the centre of Europe's narrative.

Going from EFAD to fronting the EPC must be like leaving the chef’s table to join the struggle in the kitchen?

That’s not a bad comparison! I’ve been fortunate to spend over a decade immersed in European film policy, starting at the CNC, where I was leading on European affairs, and then as Secretary General of EFAD, the association bringing together all European films and audiovisual centres.

This blend of institutional expertise and love for independent voices is something I carry into my role at EPC.

How has your experience at EFAD shaped your approach in your new role at EPC?

My time at EFAD was invaluable when it came to building bridges between national institutions, and also with all the main European and national audiovisual stakeholders. It gave me a clear view of how regulations and support schemes work across the continent.

At EPC, I approach the role with a firm belief that producers are cultural entrepreneurs who need a voice in shaping policy. The transition from the public sector to industry leadership allows me to bring a collaborative, but proactive approach, ensuring EPC is both a strategic partner and a constructive advocate.

What are the biggest challenges for the European co-production policy, and how to address them?

European co-productions are vital for three reasons: Opening financing opportunities as well as distribution markets and enriching the creative process. Co-productions travel more than purely domestic films. They are the foundation of powerful common European narratives.

We need to continue to foster co-productions by preserving funding for them, supporting the network of producers that facilitate contacts, collaboration and training (i.e. ACE, EAVE), simplifying the rules and developing new instruments. In that respect, the draft convention for TV co-productions currently discussed within the Council of Europe is an excellent example. The EPC are working on many aspects of these matters, i.e.: MediaInvest and the various equity and guarantee schemes; Advocating for the continuity and reinforcement of creative Europe that is so instrumental to European Co-productions; Consulting on the importance of Geo-Blocking.

Will the EU stand strong against the US lobby on deregulation?

We are monitoring very closely the various waves of US attacks, and of course we are puzzled and worried. The EU must stand firm. Audiovisual regulation is not just economic — it’s also the cement of the promotion of cultural diversity in our sector. The European model is built on the principle of Cultural Exception, which ensures that film and television are treated not just as commodities, but as vehicles of identity, dialogue, and diversity. We need to defend this principle vigorously — especially in the face of a new trade war initiated by the Trump administration, or the pressures from big US companies.

We are living at a very crucial moment: a test case for European solidarity and solidity. An opportunity as well to ally with likeminded countries across the world that also want to preserve space for the voices of their stories, such as Canada, Australia, and Asian and African countries. EPC is proud to be at the initiative and a signatory of A Global Declaration for Artistic Freedom, Cultural Diversity and Cultural Sovereignty, that is the basis of a broader petition”.

How do you see the role of the Nordic countries in developing European film policy?

The Nordic countries have consistently been pioneers — whether in co-production, talent development, scriptwriting, gender equality, sustainability, digital transformation, and more. They also have a strong tradition of international collaboration and export.

Nordic voices bring clarity and innovation to the European debates, and I see them playing a key role in shaping the next phase of policy — especially around transparency, rights protection, and future-proofing public funding.

Personally, over the last few years, I have developed a passion for Nordic cinema with its diversity — its bold storytelling, strong artistic vision, and unique approach to co-productions. With other Nordic film lovers, we created the first Nordic Film Festival in Belgium: Polarise Nordic Film Nights.

How can Nordic independent producers best contribute to the efforts of strengthening the conditions for co-productions?

First of all, international co-production relies on trustful and fair collaboration. Acquire the skills, and network through EAVE, ACE and the like. Be transparent, and work hard to protect your film and collaborators. Keep valuable IP rights in your pocket, and support your co-producers in doing so. Read the market, and share your insights when needed. Get organised, and contribute to the current debate. EPC is the club for producers that have earned their trust and want to share their knowledge and experiences. When ready, join the club!

How does EPC create value for its members? Why do you think EPC has had rapid growth in recent years?

EPC provides a trusted, dynamic space where members can network, exchange ideas, collaborate, learn from each other, and act together.

With CEPI and Eurocinema, EPC is one of the voices of independent producers at the highest policy levels in Europe.

In these uncertain times, and in this increasingly complex and competitive environment, producers need a united front to defend their creative independence, their rights, and their ability to develop culturally and economically significant work. EPC offers that support — built by producers, for producers.