IMDb founder Col Needham is stepping down as CEO after 35 years, with Nikki Santoro taking over. In 1990, at age 23, Needham founded the Internet Movie Database, which quickly grew into a valuable resource for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Initially focusing on actor and actress credits, IMDb expanded to include staff contributions and eventually reached 20 employees by 1995.
In 1998, Needham sold IMDb to Amazon for an undisclosed price. The site continued to grow, launching its professional offering in 2002 and acquiring rival Box Office Mojo in 2008. Today, IMDb boasts tens of millions of monthly visitors and generates revenue through advertising, subscriptions, and licensing its database.
Santoro, who joined IMDb in 2016, will be the second CEO in the site’s history. Needham will remain as founder and executive chair, based in IMDb’s Bristol office. Santoro expressed her commitment to leading the global team and continuing to elevate IMDb as a premier entertainment resource.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/imdb-founder-col-needham-ceo-nikki-santoro-1236112229