IATAS Names New Treasurer

NEW YORK: Blair Westlake, the corporate VP of Microsoft’s media and entertainment group, is to serve as treasurer for the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Westlake has been in the industry for more than 25 years. He serves as a liaison within Microsoft for media and entertainment companies. His group has brought thousands of hours of on-demand content to Microsoft customers with products such as Xbox LIVE, Windows Media Center PCs and Zune. Prior to joining Microsoft, Westlake was an executive of Universal Studios for nearly 20 years.

In his new role as treasurer at IATAS, Westlake succeeds Michael Lynton, the chairman and chief executive of Sony Pictures.

“Blair has one of the most extensive and enviable track records in our industry. From his days at Universal to his current position at Microsoft he has been an outstanding and highly respected executive,” said Bruce Paisner, the president and CEO of IATAS. “He is an active Member and great supporter of The Academy and I am so pleased that he has agreed to take on this important role within our organization.”

“The International Academy delivers groundbreaking work that is engaging global audiences in new ways,” added Westlake. “I am particularly pleased to be able to work more closely with the Executive Committee and the management team, and I am honored to be asked to serve the Academy in this capacity.”