Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The National Association of Theatre Owners is announcing Mike Bowers, president & CEO of Harkins Theatres, has been appointed as the new chair of its nonprofit organization, The Cinema Foundation.
Mr. Bowers takes over from Tim Handren, who recently retired as CEO of Santikos Theatres, according to a press release.
Tori A. Baker, CEO and president of the Salt Lake Film Society, will continue to lead as the vice chair of The Cinema Foundation, the release states.
With nearly 40 years in the theatre industry, Mr. Bowers has introduced groundbreaking innovations to the moviegoing experience and has led Harkins Theatres through significant growth and expansion from a local operator with six locations to the fifth highest grossing exhibitor in the United States and the highest performing company per location.
“I’m thrilled to join the team behind The Cinema Foundation led by Bryan Braunlich with the goal of strengthening the cinema industry and engaging moviegoing audiences around the country,” Mr. Bowers said in a prepared statement. “It’s a true honor to serve as the chair of this foundation for a great industry.”
Bryan Braunlich, executive director of The Cinema Foundation, echoed a similar sentiment.
“Mike is one of our most strategic, dedicated and passionate ambassadors for the cinema industry and for the importance of movie theatres as cornerstones serving our communities,” he said. “We’re fortunate to have him as our chair.”
