Originally from Boston, Pete Sestina graduated from Syracuse University before beginning his career in Los Angeles working for Academy Award winner Alexander Payne.
He then went on to direct commercials and television, including two award-winning series for Ellen DeGeneres, Fearless and The Build Up. His commercial work spans global campaigns for Nike, Walmart, Nissan, and Lexus, as well as the viral sensation Hard Won, which amassed over 50 million views in its first 48 hours. In 2026, his campaign The Elms for Newport Mansions won a New England Regional Emmy for Best Commercial.
Pete’s work explores different forms of human connection. He pairs naturalistic performances with striking visuals and a sense of adventure.
He can be reached at petesestina@gmail.com