MGM Appoints Chris Brearton as COO

Chris Brearton has become the new chief operating officer of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), effective at the end of the month.

In his new role, Brearton will report to Gary Barber, the chairman and CEO of MGM. He will manage the studio’s business operations as well as business development and strategic growth initiatives.

Brearton previously worked for Latham & Watkins’ Entertainment, Sports & Media Practice, where he served as managing partner of the firm’s Century City office.

Barber stated: “I’ve worked very closely with Chris for more than a decade on a myriad of deals. He has been my most trusted advisor during this period and I am thrilled he will be joining MGM. Chris’ knowledge and expertise have been invaluable to the company. He brings an unmatched understanding and vision about the future of MGM, which makes his addition to our talented senior executive team as COO even more exciting.”

Brearton added: “The opportunity to join MGM is the chance of a lifetime. MGM was my first client while I was at KPMG in 1992, so the company has always held a special place in my heart. The challenge to help this great company map out a plan to grow into the future is very exciting, and I can’t wait to get to work with Gary and the leadership team and staff at MGM on a daily basis. As I begin this new chapter of my career, I must thank Joe Calabrese and my colleagues at Latham & Watkins for years of guidance and support. They truly embody what it means for lawyers to act as trusted advisors to their clients.”