The new head of the Denver Film Society aims to boost its year-round profile, building on the annual Starz Denver Film Festival.

Burleigh "Bo" Smith, 59, on Friday was announced as the society's new executive director. He directed the film, video and concert program at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts for 21 years.

Smith's hiring followed a six-month search. Director Ron Henderson stepped down in November 2007 after more than 30 years with the society but will continue as a senior program consultant.

"Knowing the challenges and opportunities the film society faces, it really matches my desire to lead an organization and to use my expertise in the arts," Smith said.

Smith said he has been charged with making the film society's year-round program more prominent.

"We'll continue looking into the feasibility of establishing our own center, our own building," said Smith, who expects to draw on his years of fundraising experience.

"I've worked with individuals as well as foundations and the corporate sector on establishing endowments for positions and sponsorships for programs," he said.

In Boston, Smith was responsible for programming and funding 750 film programs and 50 concerts yearly. Working with various community groups, Smith created Jewish, Iranian, gay/lesbian and African film festivals.

"What I've done is to reach out and work with many constituencies and involve them in the programs," said Smith, who also has a stint with a film program in St. Paul, Minn.

The Boston-area native completed his graduate work at the University of Kansas. He is moving here with his wife, Barbara O'Brien, and has two grown children. His first official day of work is Oct. 14.

"As somebody who loves to devour film of all kinds, this will be a great job," he said.

lehndorffj@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-954-5103