David Linde Appointed CEO of Sundance Institute

David Linde has been appointed as the new CEO of the Sundance Institute, effective February 17, 2026. He succeeds Amanda Kelso, who served as interim CEO following Joana Vicente's departure in March 2024. Linde, a veteran in the film industry, previously held leadership roles at Participant Media and Universal Pictures, and co-founded Focus Features. His appointment comes as the Sundance Film Festival prepares for its final year in Park City, Utah, before relocating to Boulder, Colorado, in 2027.

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In his new role, Linde will oversee all aspects of the Sundance Institute, including artist labs, grants, fellowships, and public programs worldwide. He expressed his commitment to advancing the Institute's mission, stating, “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.” Linde aims to ensure that bold, original storytelling continues to thrive and that the Institute remains central to supporting creative storytellers.

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Linde's extensive background in the film industry includes a significant tenure as CEO of Participant Media, where he focused on producing socially impactful films. He also played a pivotal role in the international distribution of acclaimed films during his time at Miramax and was instrumental in the success of Focus Features, which won multiple Academy Awards. His experience positions him well to lead the Sundance Institute, which has been influential in shaping the careers of independent filmmakers for over 40 years.

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Ebs Burnough, Chair of the Sundance Institute Board, praised Linde's appointment, highlighting his “exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a shared commitment to independent voices.” Burnough emphasized that Linde's unique combination of industry fluency and dedication to artists will help the organization build on its legacy while advancing its mission for the future.

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While Linde's appointment has been largely welcomed, some critics have raised concerns about the challenges facing the Sundance Institute, particularly regarding its transition to Boulder and the need to maintain its relevance in an evolving film landscape. The effectiveness of Linde's leadership in addressing these challenges remains to be seen.

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The 2026 Sundance Film Festival is set to commence shortly, marking a significant moment as it will be the last festival held in Park City before the move to Boulder. Linde's leadership will be closely observed as he navigates this transition and seeks to uphold the Institute's commitment to independent filmmaking.

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• “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,” — Ebs Burnough, Sundance Institute Board Chair

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• “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.” — David Linde, incoming Sundance Institute CEO

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