Joana Vicente has announced her resignation as CEO of the Sundance Institute, a move that has surprised the global independent film community. Vicente, who previously held leadership roles at the Toronto International Film Festival, served in the position for two-and-a-half years. Amanda Kelso, a member of the Sundance Institute's Board of Trustees for four years, has been appointed as the acting CEO following Vicente's departure.
In a memo to colleagues, Vicente expressed her decision to explore new opportunities after leading two significant organizations in the independent film industry during challenging times. Kelso, a former executive at Instagram, previously served as interim CEO after Keri Putnam stepped down in 2021.
