Written By
Pinewood Group
12 March 2026
International Women’s Day (IWD) offers a moment to recognise and celebrate the women shaping Pinewood’s global studios. This year, Pinewood honoured the leadership talent within its own walls with a landmark General Manager Panel featuring three female leaders who are redefining what representation in the film and HETV industry looks like.
Hosted online across the UK and Canada, “Women Leading the Future of Film” brought together Pinewood’s General Managers:
- Sarah Farrell, Pinewood Toronto Studios
- Lisa Firetto, Pinewood Studios
- Farrah Charles, Shepperton Studios
Together, they represent decades of experience and a shared commitment to building an industry where women’s leadership is visible, valued, and woven into every level of studio operations. The session was hosted to spotlight the realities of gender representation behind the scenes, and inspire the next generation of talent entering the industry.
All three Managers sit on the Senior Leadership Team for Pinewood Group, which is over 50% female, alongside, Barbara Inskip, Board member and CFO; Leonie Dorrington-Ward, Group General Counsel; Ruth Moss, HR Director; and Amanda Halliday, Special Projects.
Leadership Journeys in Focus
During the panel, each General Manager reflected on the moments that shaped their careers — from early inspirations to stepping into senior leadership roles across studio operations and production environments.
“I joined Shepperton in 2007 and fairly quickly realised that I loved being on this side of the industry, inhouse at the studio. Having been here nearly 19 years, I’ve been fortunate to take on opportunities as they came, working across so many departments and changes. Over time I realised how much I enjoy leading a team, coming up with new ideas and making a difference.”
Lisa Firetto
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General Manager, Pinewood Studios
Sarah Farrell - General Manager, Pinewood Toronto Studios
“There’s maybe a misconception that women are more emotional than men and that makes us less suited for leadership. I actually think women have learned how to use that as a strength because we turn it into empathy. To be a leader is to tap into the emotional connection you have with other people — in a professional way. I find it to be an incredible strength.”
on misconceptions about women in senior roles
Farrah Charles -General Manager, Shepperton Studios
“I left Pinewood, gained experience across the industry, and coming back to Shepperton feels like coming home — but with a new perspective and confidence.”
on navigating the industry and returning to Shepperton
Representation, Progress, and What Still Needs to Change
The panellists explored the evolving landscape for women working in film — noting areas of industry progress, as well as the structural and cultural barriers that still need to be addressed. Discussions ranged from intentional hiring practices to the importance of creating environments where women are empowered to lead with confidence and authenticity.
"You used to see women mostly in admin roles — now we’re represented across the board. Representation shows young girls what’s possible. The more women they see, the more they believe they can be here too.”
- Farrah Charles
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Visibility, Mentorship, and Allyship
A recurring theme was the power of mentorship and the role allies — particularly male colleagues — play in shaping truly inclusive studios.
Sarah Farrell: “Intentional hiring practices allowed women to enter the workforce and work their way up to become decision makers. A long line of fiercely determined women paved the way — and a lot of wildly reasonable men at the beginning said, ‘Of course women should also be in these roles.’ As women became leaders, decisions became broader and more inclusive.”
Farrah Charles: “Real allyship is treating women exactly the same as you would men — taking our ideas and thoughts into account in the same way. We don’t need anything mansplained; we just need fairness.”
Lisa Firetto
“Creating a safe space matters. Everyone should feel confident to put ideas forward and be brave. Highlight people’s strengths, give them opportunities, and let them know they’re valued.”
Looking Ahead: Hope for the Next Generation
The panel ended on an optimistic note. All three leaders highlighted the innovation, ambition, and diverse perspectives emerging within the industry — and the importance of ensuring future talent sees themselves belonging in every part of Pinewood’s global operations.
Farrah Charles: “What gives me hope is that we’ve already got three female General Managers — that’s groundbreaking. It’s never happened in Pinewood’s history. Representation shows people what’s possible and inspires them to aim higher.”
Sarah Farrell: “The next generation should know they will be fully qualified and capable of taking on these opportunities. With AI reshaping the industry, I hope women feel emboldened to be part of the architecture phase — so our voices are represented from the ground up.”
Pinewood’s International Women’s Day panel showcased the strength, leadership, and vision of the three female General Managers shaping the future of the studios. Their experiences, insights, and commitment to representation and allyship highlight how far the industry has come — and the work that still lies ahead. Together, their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility, mentorship, and creating space for the next generation of women to lead with confidence and ambition.