Richard Gelfond is an American business executive who serves as the chief executive officer (CEO) of IMAX Corporation, one of the leading entertainment technologies in the world. Under his leadership, IMAX Corporation has transformed from a niche exhibitor of nature and science documentaries into a major Hollywood player. The company has not only advanced its high-tech exhibition technology but has also become a creative partner in the filmmaking process.
Now, IMAX has over 1700 theatres in over 80 countries. Gelfond is one of entertainment’s longest-tenured executives, he joined IMAX in 1994 as co-chairman. Before that, Gelfond worked as a mergers and acquisitions investment banker at Drexel Burnham Lambert.
Richard Gelfond’s Personal Stats and Other Details | |
Date of Birth | 1955 |
Age | 68 or 69 |
Residence | United States |
Citizenship | United States |
Marital Status | Unknown |
Children | Unknown |
Education | Bachelor’s degree from Stony Brook University; Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Northwestern University School of Law |
Current Net Worth and Salary (2024) | Unknown |
Companies | IMAX, Cheviot Capital Advisors |
Achievements | CEO of IMAX |
This article will look into Richard Gelfond’s net worth, education, career, and more.
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Richard Gelfond Net Worth
Despite being a prominent personality in the entertainment industry, there is information available on Richard Gelfond’s net worth. We will update this section as soon as we come across any credible data on Geldfond’s wealth.
However, we do know that Gelfond is most likely the highest-paid employee at IMAX, the world’s leading entertainment technology platform. So, he must receive a substantial base pay, bonuses, and stock options.
Education
Richard Gelfond completed his bachelor’s degree at Stony Brook University in 1976. He then went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law in 1979. In recognition of his achievements, Stony Brook University awarded him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in 2004.
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Career
Richard Gelfond began his professional journey as a law clerk for U.S. Court of Appeals judge Max Rosenn. He joined immediately after completing his Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law in 1979.
Following his clerkship, he practiced law at Cleary Gottlieb, where he honed his skills in legal matters. Transitioning into finance, he later joined Drexel Burnham Lambert as an investment banker specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
In 1994, Gelfond’s career took a pivotal turn when his investment firm, Cheviot Capital Advisors, acquired IMAX Corporation.
This acquisition marked the beginning of his long association with the company. He initially joined IMAX as Vice Chairman, and by 1996, he had become co-CEO. During this time, he and his investment partner, Brad Wechsler, received an Academy Award on behalf of IMAX for Scientific and Technical Achievement, recognizing their efforts to revolutionize cinematic technology.
In 2009, Gelfond assumed the role of sole CEO of IMAX Corporation. Under his leadership, the company transformed from a niche producer of nature and science documentaries into a significant player in Hollywood filmmaking. IMAX evolved not only as a high-tech exhibitor but also as a creative collaborator in movie production. Gelfond oversaw the expansion of the company’s proprietary technology, making it a premium platform for immersive cinematic experiences.
One of Gelfond’s most notable achievements has been IMAX’s successful entry into the Chinese market. Over the past 15 years, IMAX has become an integral part of China’s burgeoning film industry, with the nation now serving as the company’s second-largest and fastest-growing market. By growing alongside China’s entertainment sector, IMAX has firmly established itself as a key player in the country’s movie-going culture.
Today, under Gelfond’s leadership, IMAX operates over 1,700 theaters in more than 80 countries, showcasing Hollywood blockbusters as well as local-language films. His strategic vision and commitment to innovation have made him one of the entertainment industry’s longest-tenured executives. Through his efforts, IMAX continues to redefine the cinematic experience for audiences worldwide.
Latest Updates
IMAX Corporation delivered a strong third-quarter performance in 2024, with its shares climbing over 3% in after-hours trading. The rise reflects solid results, new system installations, and an optimistic outlook shared by CEO Rich Gelfond.
While total revenue fell by 12% year-over-year to $91.5 million, net income increased by 13% to $13.9 million, with adjusted net income at $18.9 million and EPS flat at 35 cents a share, beating Wall Street expectations. The company’s Content Revenues totaled $30 million, down 32% compared to the previous year.
“With an exceptional content pipeline, accelerating system installations, and robust sales activity worldwide, we are very well-positioned to execute and capitalize on the opportunity ahead over the next several years,” Gelfond said.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is the CEO of IMAX?
The chief executive officer (CEO) of IMAX is Richard (Rich) Gelfond. Gelfond has been serving as the company’s sole CEO since 2009.
Who is Richard Gelfond?
Richard Gelfond is an American business executive who serves as the chief executive officer (CEO) of IMAX Corporation, one of the leading entertainment technologies in the world.