Jinny Howe, Netflix‘s head of U.S. and Canada scripted series, has been confirmed as the first keynote speaker for the 47th annual Banff World Media Festival — marking one of the streaming giant’s most prominent executive appearances on the international media circuit this year.
The festival runs June 14–17 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada. Howe’s appearance is part of the prestigious Banff Summit Series, the event’s marquee programming track that has historically drawn the industry’s most consequential voices.
Bell Media President and Banff Board Chair Sean Cohan underscored the significance of the booking. “Jinny Howe’s leadership is helping to shape the stories audiences around the world are watching,” Cohan said. “Her work exemplifies the creativity, innovation, and global perspective that define this festival, and we look forward to attendees hearing her insights firsthand.”
Howe assumed her current role in August, stepping up from her previous position as Vice President of Drama Series. She has been with Netflix since 2018.
Under Howe’s oversight, Netflix has launched some of its most celebrated and commercially successful scripted titles. The Emmy-winning limited series Beef, the Shonda Rhimes juggernaut Bridgerton, and the critically lauded Maid all came to fruition on her watch. Her portfolio also includes The Night Agent, The Diplomat, The Lincoln Lawyer, Sirens, and Untamed.
Looking ahead, Howe’s upcoming slate signals continued investment in high-profile IP and star-driven projects. A reboot of Little House on the Prairie, Julia Garner-led The Altruists, and Will Ferrell vehicle The Hawk are among the titles in development — reinforcing Netflix’s push to dominate the premium scripted space.
Before joining Netflix, Howe spent 13 years at John Wells Television, rising to Executive VP of Television. Her credits there include Shameless, Southland, and Animal Kingdom.
The Banff Summit Series has long served as a bellwether forum for the global television and streaming industry. Past keynote speakers include Chuck Lorre, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Ted Sarandos, Bela Bajaria, Anjali Sud, Paula Kerger, and Maverick Carter — a roster that reflects the event’s standing as a must-attend destination for senior media executives.
This year, Spain has been named Banff’s “Country of Honour.” The festival has also unveiled nominees for the 2026 Rockie Awards International Program Competition, set for Tuesday, June 16. Full Frontal With Samantha Bee correspondent Allana Harkin will host the ceremony, which runs concurrently with the Banff Gala Awards.
