The Los Angeles Film Festival has named producer Jennifer Cochis (“Smashed”) as its next creative director, Deadline reports. Cochis is succeeding director and producer Stephanie Allain (“Hustle & Flow,” “Beyond the Lights”), who is stepping down to work on the Netflix series “Dear White People” and other projects.

“It’s an incredibly exciting challenge to build upon the great work that Stephanie has done at the LA Film Festival these past five years,” explained Cochis. “I am passionate about continuing to grow this Festival, bringing together audacious and brave visual storytellers with the audiences of Los Angeles.”

This organizational change was originally announced on Friday by Film Independent, the non-profit that produces LAFF as well as the Spirit Awards. Film Independent confirmed that Cochis is “collaborating with outgoing Festival Director Stephanie Allain on all aspects of the Festival.”

According to Film Independent President Josh Welsh, Cochis and Allain have worked together closely for a couple of years now. Welsh describes Cochis as “a brilliant new force on the Festival scene.” “I am extremely happy to have her step into this new role,” he added.

Allain will serve as an executive producer on “Dear White People,” which is currently filming. The series is based on the 2014 film of the same name, and is set to debut on Netflix sometime in 2017.

This year’s LAFF program included Amber Tamblyn’s “Paint It Black,” Stella Meghie’s “Jean of the Joneses,” and Jacqueline Gares’ “FREE CeCe!” “Selma” director Ava DuVernay was recognized with the Spirit of Independence honor.

Submissions for LAFF 2017 are now open.