Miramax's Putnam Tapped to Head Sundance Institute

New Sundance Institute executive director Keri Putnam. Image courtesy Sundance Institute

Recent Miramax Films production President Keri Putnam has been named the new Executive Director of the Sundance Institute. She will join the organization in mid April in Los Angeles in the wake of last year's departure of Ken Brecher.

"Keri Putnam has a passion for the arts, a leading profile in the film community, and a stellar reputation for her intelligence, creativity, collaboration and leadership at the highest levels of business," said Robert Redford, President and Founder of Sundance Institute, in a statement today, "Working together to expand our international presence, connect to new audiences, and experiment with emerging areas of artist support, I have every confidence Keri's knowledge and talent will be critical to the fulfillment and expansion of the Institute's mission and vision in the years ahead."

Putnam will oversee all of the Institute's programs, including the Feature Film Program, Documentary Film Program, Sundance Film Festival, Film Music Program, Theatre Program, and Native and Indigenous Program, according to an announcement. She will also manage the organization's international outreach and develop partnerships and work on fund raising.

"Throughout my career I have witnessed the breadth and impact of the many programs of Sundance Institute, and I am both thrilled and privileged to become a part of this organization's leading work," Putnam said in a statement. "Sundance is truly unique not only for its mission but for its entire culture, brand and influence. This is an incredible opportunity for me personally and there is also tremendous potential for all of us -- staff, trustees, alumni and friends alike -- to explore new opportunities and expand on our global reputation. I can't wait to get started."

Prior to her work at Miramax, Keri Putnam was an executive at HBO Films. She is a graduate of Harvard with a background in the theater.