Former U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd Joins MPAA as CEO

WASHINGTON: The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) has hired former U.S. senator Christopher Dodd as its new chairman and CEO, effective March 17.

Dodd completed five terms in the U.S. senate, ending his run in January. He served as the chairman of the senate banking committee and was the author of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. He served as acting-chairman of the senate health, education, labor and pensions (HELP) committee during the 2009 consideration of the Heath Care Reform Act. Dodd was a senior member of the senate foreign relations committee as well.

“Chris has served our country as a highly respected and accomplished Senator for over 30 years, and we are truly fortunate that he will bring his stature and talent to support the creative efforts of our filmmakers and the many people who work in our industry, here and around the world,” commented Jim Gianopulos, Fox Filmed Entertainment’s chairman and CEO. He added, “We’re also grateful to Bob Pisano, who has done an excellent job of leading the MPA during this transition period.”

"I am truly excited about representing the interests of one of the most creative and productive industries in America, not only in Washington but around the world,” said Senator Dodd. “The major motion picture studios consistently produce and distribute the most sought after and enjoyable entertainment on earth. Protecting this great American export will be my highest priority.”

“In several important ways, taking this step represents a continuation of my work in the Senate, from advancing the interests of children and families and creating and safeguarding American jobs to the protection of intellectual property and the expansion of international trade,” commented Senator Dodd. "It is also an honor to follow in the footsteps of Jack Valenti and Dan Glickman, both of whom I worked with on many occasions over the years. I look forward to working with the studios, the Association staff and all who work in our industry on the major issues facing it during this time of economic and technological challenge and global growth.”

“We conducted a thorough search to identify the very best individual to lead the MPAA," added Michael Lynton, Sony Pictures Entertainment’s chairman and CEO. "We’re convinced we have found that person in Chris Dodd. He is uniquely qualified to represent and protect our industry globally."

“Chris Dodd not only has the political instincts and experience, but he’s the right person to lead the film industry through its toughest challenges regarding content protection and piracy on a domestic and global scale,” commented Barry Meyer, the chairman and CEO of Warner Bros.

Alan Braverman, the senior executive VP and general counsel at the Walt Disney Company and MPAA Search Committee Member, added, “This is a critical time for the motion picture industry and we couldn’t be more pleased that Chris Dodd is leading our team. His vast experience in consensus-building and innovative approaches to resolving complex issues make him the ideal choice to lead this organization.”