Shira Rockowitz devises programs that support filmmakers through creative and professional development, mentorship, and industry engagement, to advance individual projects from script stage through distribution, and enable them to think more strategically about building a sustainable career. This includes launching Elevate, an innovative professional development track supporting 250+ artists, oversight of the Feature Film Producers Lab & Fellowship and Producers Intensive, and co-leadership of the Producers Summit and select activities at the Sundance Film Festival. Shira also is a key curator and contributor to the Screenwriters Lab, Directors Lab, and Catalyst. Prior to Sundance, Shira was director of development and production at Exclusive Media and a co-producer on John Carney’s Begin Again. She began her career with positions at New Regency, Paramount Vantage, and Fine Line Features / New Line Cinema. Shira is a graduate of Northwestern University and holds an MFA from the Peter Stark Producing Program at the University of Southern California, where she is an adjunct lecturer.