New President in Place at Blockbuster

ENGLEWOOD: Following DISH Network’s acquisition of Blockbuster’s assets, a new president has been put in place for the home-entertainment rental and retail chain: Michael Kelly.

Kelly has been serving as executive VP of DISH Network’s commercial services division, as well as the direct sales and media sales organizations. Kelly has held a number of roles within DISH Network, including management of field service, customer care operations and strategic initiatives. His company, Kelly Broadcasting Systems, was acquired by DISH in 2000.

"Blockbuster can offer more movies to consumers in more ways than any other distributor," Kelly said. "I am excited to work with Blockbuster’s dedicated employees and franchisees around the world to reinvigorate the iconic Blockbuster brand and allow consumers easier access to enjoy the more than 125,000 movie and game titles available from Blockbuster’s neighborhood stores, by-mail service and digital library."

"Michael was the visionary behind our acquisition of Blockbuster," added Charlie Ergen, the chairman and CEO of DISH Network. "His leadership will be key to returning Blockbuster to profitability and improving the experience we offer to consumers across the U.S. and globally."