In a move that marks a vibrant new chapter for Chicago’s film industry, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has appointed Natasha P. Olguin as the new Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Film Office.
A proud North Lawndale native, Olguin brings over two decades of experience as a producer, location manager, writer, director, and entrepreneur. Her hiring fills the top leadership vacancy left after the departure of former deputy commissioner Jonah Zeiger.
Olguin will now lead the Film Office’s efforts to develop policy, support production, grow the local workforce, and build strategic partnerships that promote a sustainable and inclusive media-production economy in Chicago.
“Natasha is a trailblazer in the industry, and a passionate advocate for community development,” said DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth. “Her achievements and entrepreneurial skills are nicely aligned for the film office to expand Chicago as a creative hub for filmmakers and to view the backdrop of the city and its many communities as a beautiful place with a rich vibrancy.”
Her credits as location manager, assistant location manager, location scout, and location coordinator, span high-profile productions including The Dark Knight, Contagion, Man of Steel, Empire, Ironheart, 61st Street, The Chi, and the upcoming Heist 88. She is also the founder and CEO of Noisemakers Entertainment and previously led Production Rentals Chicago. Her affiliations include IATSE Local 476, the Producers Guild of America, and the Directors Guild of America.
In addition to her work in film and TV, Olguin is a committed community advocate. She serves as president of the BIGG Hearted Foundation, which provides scholarships to underserved youth. She holds a B.A. in Speech and Communications with a minor in African American Studies from the University of Illinois.
With major productions like Apple TV’s Dark Matter, The Chi, The Bear, NBC’s One Chicago franchise, and features such as Enemies continuing to film in the city, Olguin steps into the role at a time of remarkable opportunity—and momentum—for Chicago’s film industry.
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