Hailer takes over from the esteemed Linde Frölich who will retire by the end of 2020.

The experienced Hailer has worked over 12 years as curator of the Berlin International Film Festival, and advisor to the festival director. He was also Head of the Berlinale Generation section for kids and youth from 2002-2008. 

"We have found the optimal cast for the artistic direction with Thomas Hailer”, said Jan Lindenau, Mayor of the Hanseatic city of Lübeck, part of the recruitment committee. “His extensive experience, knowledge and contacts from years of working for the Berlinale, are an excellent enrichment for the Nordische Filmtage [Nordic Film Days] Lübeck. He is very well connected and will be able to give the Film Days important new impulses.”

Hailer said: "The Nordische Filmtage Lübeck has had a strong place in my heart for many years. The festival enjoys an undisputed reputation in the film industry and with its unique focus on the Nordic region, which is unmatched in Europe, it is attracting more and more professionals to Lübeck."  

Hailer’s appointment follows the recruitment on April 1st of Susanne Kasimir who took over from Florian Vollmers as the festival’s managing director. 

This year’s 62nd Nordic Film Days - to be held as a hybrid live and online event between November 4-8 - will open with the screening of the Danish WW2 drama The Good Traitor directed by Christina Rosendahl.