Outline:
New Leadership at Sundance Institute
The Sundance Institute has announced the appointment of David Linde as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Linde will take on this role starting February 17, succeeding Amanda Kelso, who served as interim CEO after Joana Vicente left the organization in March 2024. This marks a significant transition for the institute, which has long been a cornerstone of support for independent filmmakers and creative storytellers.
As the new CEO, Linde will oversee all of the Sundance Institute’s initiatives, including artist labs, grants, and fellowships. He will also be responsible for managing programs like Sundance Collab, public programs worldwide, and the Sundance Film Festival. A major focus of his leadership will be the festival’s upcoming relocation to Boulder, Colorado, beginning in 2027.
Vision for the Future
Ebs Burnough, Chair of the Sundance Institute Board, shared his thoughts on the appointment: "For over 40 years, Sundance Institute has stood at the intersection of artistic excellence, audience impact, and industry significance by playing a formative role in shaping the careers of filmmakers and uplifting independent work globally. Following a period of interim leadership, we are pleased to appoint David Linde as our permanent CEO. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a shared commitment to independent voices. David brings a rare combination of industry fluency, social cause management, and deep commitment to artists, positioning the organization to build on our legacy while advancing our mission for the future."
Linde expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: "I am honored to join Sundance Institute as CEO to steward an organization that is essential to independent artists, the broader creative community, and culture at large. I look forward to working alongside the staff, artists, partners, and the board to further advance the visionary programs and Festival, while ensuring that bold, original storytelling continues to thrive and that the Institute’s truly central role for creative storytellers and their champions endures."
A Career Focused on Storytelling
Before joining the Sundance Institute, Linde had a distinguished career in the entertainment industry. He was the CEO of Participant, a production company known for creating entertainment with social impact. He also served as chairman of Universal Pictures, co-founded Focus Features, and was a partner at Good Machine. Additionally, he was the CEO and owner of Lava Bear Films, where he continued to support artist-driven storytelling.
After the closure of Participant, Linde has been consulting for film and media companies in the U.S. and Europe while also executive producing several film titles. His experience and insights have made him a valuable figure in the industry.
Board Memberships and Contributions
Linde has also played an active role in supporting the arts through various board memberships. He serves on the Board of Trustees of the American Film Institute, the Board of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts North America, and the Board of Directors of Film Independent. He was elected to two full terms on the Board of Directors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, including serving as its Treasurer.
Looking Ahead
With Linde at the helm, the Sundance Institute is poised to continue its mission of fostering independent filmmaking and supporting creative storytellers around the world. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for the arts, positions the organization for continued success and innovation in the years ahead.