Daniel Battsek Appointed as New President of Film at Lincoln Center
Daniel Battsek, the former chairman of Film4, has been appointed as the new president of Film at Lincoln Center, effective May 1. In this pivotal role, Battsek will steer the strategic vision for the organization that oversees the renowned New York Film Festival.
The change in leadership comes after Lesli Klainberg stepped down following the conclusion of the 2024 New York Film Festival. Battsek’s extensive experience in the film industry makes him a noteworthy successor in this nonprofit dedicated to promoting the art of cinema.
A Legacy of Acclaimed Films
From 2016 to 2024, Battsek served as the director and subsequently chairman of Film4, where he was instrumental in producing a number of critically acclaimed and award-winning films. Some prominent titles under his leadership include The Zone of Interest, Poor Things, All of Us Strangers, The Banshees of Inisherin, and The Favourite. Following his departure from Film4, he continues to be recognized for his significant contributions to the film sector.
In addition to his work with Film4, Battsek has served as chairman of Film London since 2018. His impressive resume includes previous roles such as president of National Geographic Films and president of filmed entertainment at Miramax. Notably, he also held a long-standing position as the executive vice president and managing director of U.K. distribution and European production and acquisitions at Buena Vista International, U.K. This role involved overseeing the distribution of approximately 18-25 films annually from Walt Disney Studios and their partners, including Pixar and Miramax.
Vision for the Future
In a statement, Battsek expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am very honored to be selected to lead Film at Lincoln Center, a globally recognized cornerstone of film culture. My goal is to bring the knowledge and experience I’ve gained throughout my career in the film industry to support and elevate FLC’s programming, mission, and brand. Having long admired FLC as a vital New York cultural institution, I am immensely proud to take the helm at such an exciting moment for cinema.”
Daniel H. Stern, chair of the Film at Lincoln Center board of directors, spoke highly of Battsek’s background, noting, “Daniel Battsek’s extensive leadership experience, his deep connections within the global film community, and his clear passion for cinema and our mission make him the ideal fit to lead Film at Lincoln Center—especially in this time of great change in the film ecosystem.” Stern elaborated on the thorough selection process, highlighting that Battsek emerged as the unanimous choice after a comprehensive international search conducted with the help of recruiting firm Stanton Chase.
As Film at Lincoln Center prepares to navigate a dynamic film landscape—marked by record-breaking attendance in recent festivals and new partnerships, such as a multiyear collaboration with Rolex—Battsek’s leadership is anticipated to foster growth and innovation within the organization. The board is optimistic about this new chapter and eager to support Battsek in shaping a bold future for Film at Lincoln Center.