Sundance Institute Appoints David Linde as New Chief Executive Officer

The nonprofit Sundance Institute has officially announced the appointment of David Linde as its new Chief Executive Officer, with his tenure beginning on February 17, 2026. The leadership transition marks a significant moment for the globally influential arts organization as it continues expanding its mission of championing independent storytelling while preparing for the Sundance Film Festival’s future relocation to Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027.

Linde will oversee the Institute’s full creative ecosystem, including its renowned artist labs, grants and fellowships, the digital community platform Sundance Collab, international public programs, and the Sundance Film Festival itself. His appointment follows a period of interim leadership and reflects the Board’s confidence in his experience across both independent and studio filmmaking landscapes.

A Leader with Deep Industry Roots

Sundance Institute Board Chair Ebs Burnough praised Linde’s unique ability to bridge creative vision with strategic leadership, highlighting his long-standing commitment to uplifting independent voices. Throughout his career, Linde has consistently built organizations that balance artistic integrity with global reach, positioning him as a natural fit to guide Sundance Institute into its next era.

Linde brings decades of experience working with acclaimed filmmakers and shaping award-winning projects. Prior to this appointment, he served as CEO of Participant, a production company known for blending cinematic excellence with social impact storytelling. Under his leadership, Participant produced and supported films that sparked public dialogue while achieving major critical and commercial success.

Since stepping down from Participant in 2024, Linde has continued consulting for film and media companies in the U.S. and Europe while executive producing several new projects, maintaining close ties with creative talent across the industry.

From Studio Executive to Independent Champion

Before leading Participant, Linde held several pivotal roles that helped shape modern independent cinema. He previously served as Chairman of Universal Pictures, where he oversaw major studio productions and global distribution strategies. He was also a co-founder of Focus Features, which became one of the most influential specialty film labels in the world, known for releasing critically acclaimed international and independent films.

Earlier in his career, Linde was a partner at Good Machine and later founded Lava Bear Films, further cementing his reputation as a champion of artist-driven projects. His ability to scale creative companies while maintaining strong relationships with filmmakers has remained a defining strength.

A Vision for the Future of Sundance

In accepting the role, Linde expressed deep respect for Sundance Institute’s legacy and its essential role in nurturing creative voices across generations. He emphasized his excitement to collaborate with artists, staff, and partners to ensure the Institute continues serving as a central home for bold storytelling.

With the upcoming geographic transition of the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder, Colorado, Linde will guide the organization through a historic shift while preserving the Festival’s global prestige and community spirit. His leadership is expected to focus on expanding access, strengthening artist support, and adapting to the evolving media landscape.

Commitment to Arts Leadership and Governance

Beyond his executive work in film production, Linde has been deeply involved in major cultural institutions. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the American Film Institute, the North American board of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts North America, and the Board of Directors of Film Independent.

Linde also completed two full terms on the board of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, including serving as Treasurer. These roles reflect his long-standing commitment to strengthening the institutions that support filmmakers and film culture worldwide.

Building on Sundance’s Enduring Legacy

Founded in 1981 by Robert Redford, Sundance Institute has grown into one of the most influential forces in independent cinema. Through its year-round programs and Festival platform, the Institute has helped launch the careers of countless filmmakers and supported landmark films that reshaped modern storytelling.

From nurturing early works of now-renowned directors to supporting socially impactful documentaries and innovative narratives, Sundance Institute continues to serve as a cornerstone of creative development and cultural conversation.

A New Chapter for Independent Storytelling

With David Linde stepping into the CEO role, Sundance Institute enters a new phase defined by both continuity and evolution. His blend of studio expertise, independent film leadership, and institutional governance positions him to strengthen the organization’s global reach while staying true to its artist-first mission.

As the Institute prepares for new opportunities, geographic change, and the shifting dynamics of film distribution and audience engagement, Linde’s leadership promises to uphold Sundance’s reputation as a vital incubator for daring, original, and meaningful storytelling for generations to come.