Juan Devis, former chief creative officer at the Public Media Group of Southern California (PBS SoCal | KCET), has been named president of Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards. The news was announced today by acting president Brenda Robinson. Devis, an accomplished media executive, creative strategist and proven fundraiser, will lead the organization into its next chapter. He will start on April 20.
The appointment follows the passing of former president Josh Welsh, in whose honor the organization established the Josh Welsh Legacy Fund this year, raising $1 million to support urgent year-round artist programs. Devis will honor this legacy as he guides Film Independent’s mission to champion creative independence in visual storytelling and support a vibrant global community of artists.
“This is a pivotal moment for Film Independent as we enter our next era, and I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Juan Devis as our next president,” said Robinson. “Juan brings a rare blend of institutional leadership and independent production experience, from overseeing award-winning programming at PBS SoCal, to his work at Ninety-Three Media. His track record of expanding how independent stories reach audiences and elevating distinguished voices makes him the ideal choice to lead the organization forward.”
Search Committee co-chairs Alix Madigan and Eric d’Arbeloff led an expansive search process. “We met many outstanding candidates,” they shared in a joint statement. “Juan stood out for the way he embodies the enduring values that define Film Independent—championing artistic voices and building community—in a way that transcends the rapidly shifting landscape.”
“I’ve spent my life creating access, building ecosystems and championing diverse voices, because I believe that a healthy, inclusive and sustainable independent film community isn’t just good for artists–it’s essential for our culture,” said Devis. “I am looking forward to helping build Film Independent’s future as a resilient, globally connected, multi-platform ecosystem that sustains and celebrates independent film and media worldwide.”
Devis also emphasized Film Independent’s unique role in the industry and its home in Los Angeles. “Unlike any other institution, Film Independent provides a continuous, integrated pathway for independent film and media,” he said. “Our unique value lies in this end-to-end stewardship–from discovery to funding to production, distribution and celebration. Film Independent is the preeminent cultural institution in Los Angeles that advocates for, grants access to and celebrates filmmaking’s vital role in our city’s cultural and economic health.”
