Michelle Byrd to Step Down from IFP at the End of 2009

Michelle Byrd, who has helmed the Independent Filmmaker Project (IFP) for over 12 years, has announced her resignation, effective December 31, 2009. Byrd has been part of IFP since 1992, when she joined the membership and programming departments. She was promoted to Deputy Director in 1996, then Executive Director in April 1997. During Byrd’s tenure, she has strengthened IFP’s flagship program, Independent Feature Week, which now emphasizes works-in-progress, and she has overseen the expansion of the No Borders International Co-Production Market. The Gotham Independent Film Awards is largely seen as the kickoff event of the awards season, while IFP’S Independent Feature Labs for both narrative and documentary programs and its fiscal sponsor program are both highlights of Byrd’s years at IFP.

 

Most recently Byrd co-founded with the United Nations, Envision, a documentary film forum to address global issues. “I informed the board of my decision to depart last November so that I could openly have meetings about my next professional journey and spend a solid year working with the board and staff to ensure a positive and smooth transition,” said Byrd in a prepared statement. “This is a community and an organization about which I care deeply and all of us are working collaboratively to ensure that a leadership change won’t place any unnecessary stress on the organization. I have great faith in our Deputy Directors, Amy Dotson in programming and membership, and Mitch Micich in finance and operations, and their ability to aid in a smooth transition.” Byrd is presently in discussions on her next move, one that will build upon her relationships in the media space and unify her interest in global issues and technology.

“Michelle has done as much as any individual to advance the cause of independent filmmaking in New York,” said Jeffrey Levy-Hinte, IFP Board Chairman, in a statement “All of us at IFP will miss her immensely, but we also acknowledge that this is an opportunity for a new infusion of leadership, energy and direction, and we are excited to begin the search and open a new chapter in IFP’s long history at the center of independent film.”