Starz Chairman to Retire

ENGLEWOOD: Starz has begun the search for a new CEO, following news that its current chairman and CEO, Robert B. Clasen, is to retire at the end of the year.

Clasen joined Starz Entertainment in 2003. In 2006, when Liberty Media Corp. acquired the entertainment assets of IDT Corp. to create Starz Media, Clasen was tapped as the CEO of Starz, LLC. Announcing Clasen’s retirement, John Malone, the chairman of Liberty Media, noted: "During his 40-year career in the industry, Bob has demonstrated his vision and management skills in every phase of the business. He has been a valuable member of our top management team and I thank Bob for his leadership and contributions."

"Bob has been critical in the transformation and success of Starz," added Greg Maffei, the president and CEO of Liberty Media. "During his tenure, Starz grew subscribers, doubled cash flow, expanded original programming and added new services. Bob has been a great asset to Starz and we are pleased he will remain with us for the coming months to assist with the transition."