AMC Networks announced today that Lisa Schwartz, the longtime executive who leads the business strategy, distribution, and strategic partnerships for the company’s IFC Films division, is stepping down at the end of the year. Most recently, Schwartz led IFC Films’ foray into streaming by creating and successfully launching the IFC Films Unlimited streaming channel, which is experiencing rapid subscriber growth driven by a rich library of award-winning, acclaimed films from the IFC Films, Sundance Selects and IFC Midnight distribution labels, including “The Trip,” “Two Days, One Night,” “45 Years” and “The Babadook.”

Schwartz has a long history of monetizing content and developing entertainment services. She previously spearheaded development of the company’s Sundance Now subscription video on demand service, which launched in 2014. She also leveraged strong affiliate relationships and her own innovative approach to the business to help create IFC Films’ pioneering and industry-leading day-and-date distribution model, releasing independent films in theaters as well as on VOD, an industry first that has since become an industry standard.

“Lisa is an extraordinary business person who finds and creates value and business opportunities in a way that is quite rare,” said Josh Sapan, AMC Networks President and CEO. “I know her keen commercial instincts and creativity will lead her to do many more great things.”

“Lisa has been instrumental in identifying and driving key revenue opportunities for IFC Films,” said Ed Carroll, AMC Networks Chief Operating Officer. “Lisa was the chief architect behind IFC Films Unlimited, unlocking value from our library of acclaimed films and putting the service on an early path to success. She has been a great colleague and friend for many years and we will miss her smarts and creativity.”

“In an extraordinary year like no other, extraordinary and innovative approaches were developed which kept IFC Films at the forefront of film distribution,” said Schwartz. “I’m very proud to have been a part of the leadership team that forged ahead and accomplished the incredible success the business has achieved, particularly over the past couple of years. I look forward to taking that spirit of innovation and creativity with me into my next chapter.”

Schwartz joined IFC Films in 2006 with extensive experience in sales and marketing. Prior to joining the division, she served as senior vice president of national accounts for AMC Networks’ distribution group and was responsible for distribution and contract negotiations for all distributors for several of AMC Networks and VOD services. Previously, Schwartz held various key affiliate distribution positions within the company.