Director, Catalyst and Industry

The Director, Catalyst and Industry, leads the Catalyst program and year-round Industry engagement, with a focus on film financing, distribution and audience engagement. This position develops annual and multi-year strategies that create meaningful film-financing opportunities, by: exploring evolving financing models, approaches to audience engagement amongst a transitioning distribution environment, all in support of emerging filmmakers. This work is developed in alignment with the Sundance Institute’s broader strategic priorities and is a key part of the the Institute’s unique, artist-support oriented, ecosystem

The Catalyst program is an integral part of the Sundance Institute's Artist Program and provides a bridge between a film's development and its financing, production and audience engagement. Through year-round programming, film financing matchmaking opportunities such as Catalyst Forum, and industry events, Catalyst builds a culture of partnership between independent funders, artists, and their projects. The program connects independent filmmakers with potential sources of financing, supports a new generation of independent voices, and prepares both funders and filmmakers for the rapidly changing structures and future models for film financing and distribution.

Highly curated and community-driven, Catalyst offers a guided entry into film investment with personalized support for both funders and filmmakers. Participants dive into the complexities of financing, distribution and audience engagement, and participate in this unique community through industry talks, social events, access to exceptional artists, and connection to the wider Sundance ecosystem.

In addition to overseeing project curation and year-round programming, the Director will lead the program’s investor strategy, including member stewardship and onboarding new funders, to support a growing community of ethical, forward-looking funders. As part of the filmmaker track, the Director will oversee the curatorial approach of the program, the rigorous filmmaker prep and long-term support strategy for alumni, in partnership with the Senior Manager.

Working closely under the Founding Senior Director, Artist Programs, the Director, Catalyst and Industry will collaborate on strategy, initiatives, and goals across various departments including Artist Programs, Advancement, Operations, and Industry Relations.

This is a full-time position that requires the individual to be based in and reside within a commutable distance to Los Angeles, CA. The role operates in a hybrid capacity. Extended hours and travel will be required during key periods, including the Catalyst Forum, Sundance Film Festival, and programmatic milestones.

• Developing and leading annual and multi-year strategies for Catalyst’s filmmaker and investor programming, financing opportunities, industry engagement, and events in alignment with the Institute’s broader priorities.

• Overseeing project outreach, evaluation, and selection in collaboration with the Catalyst team and other Artist Programs, ensuring Catalyst supports a distinctive and representative group of filmmakers and projects.

• Developing and leading the exploration of different film financing models, such as slate funding or producer funding, as a part of Catalyst’s commitment to experimentation, to be tested and piloted in partnership with the community and other Artist Programs.

• Establishing program goals and measures of success, use research and data to evaluate impact, and develop and test evolving approaches to independent film financing, distribution, and audience engagement.