Sandra Kleinfeld retiring as commissioning editor of CBC docs, Michelle McCree elevated

Sandra Kleinfeld is set to retire as senior director and commissioning editor of documentary at the CBC after 20 years with the Canadian pubcaster.

Sandra Kleinfeld

Michelle McCree, who currently serves as executive in charge of production for documentary strand The Passionate Eye, will assume the role at the end of the month, when Kleinfeld officially vacates the post.

For the remainder of August, the pair will operate in a co-leadership capacity, said CBC executive director of unscripted content Jennifer Dettman, who made the announcement internally on Monday.

Since joining the CBC, Kleinfeld has played a key role in series such as Still Standing, Hello Goodbye and the local version of Dragons’ Den plus docs like Antidiva: The Carole Pope Confessions, in addition to overseeing doc strands and shows including The Nature of Things, The Passionate Eye, CBC Docs POV, CBC Short Docs and the Documentary Channel.

Michelle McCree

She has also been a key figure in the upcoming launch of the CBC’s FAST channel, which will go live this autumn.

“Sandra has been an unwavering advocate for Canadian content and a tireless champion for the filmmakers who tell our stories,” said Dettman.

“Her impact is measured not just in programmes, but in the dedication and mentorship she has provided to so many in our community. We are immensely grateful for her leadership and the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.”

During her tenure at CBC, McCree has overseen docs including Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery and Yintah, in addition to the upcoming docuseries Snow King: From Olympian to Narco. Prior to joining the pubcaster, she was wrote, produced and directed unscripted projects for companies including Blue Ant, Discovery and IFC Films.

“[McCree’s] hands-on experience and deep roots in the independent filmmaking community make her a trusted, authentic voice to lead this team forward,” said Dettman.