IMDbThe Internet Movie Database, is getting its first new CEO in its 35-year history. Col Needham, the company’s founder and its CEO throughout the site’s existence, is transitioning out of his role and will become the new executive chairman of IMDb.
Nikki Santoro, who has been IMDb’s Chief Operating Officer since 2021, is elevated to the CEO role. She is only IMDB’s second CEO ever and the first woman to hold the position.
Needham has been with IMDb from the beginning of 1990 and seen through its acquisition of Amazon in 1998, many redesigned websites who have introduced countless new features for showtimes, streaming options and IMDbPro. During his time there have also been policy changes such as allows individuals to remove their age or first name from their database pages, and many more changes that have made it one of the most trafficked sites on the entire internet with 250 million visitors every month.
In his new role, Needham will continue to provide strategic guidance to the company, consult on key initiatives and serve as a global ambassador for IMDb. Needham will still be based in Bristol, England, and he will remain a board member of Into Film and Film Independent, while serving as Global Brand Ambassador for the British Board of Film Classification.
“After founding IMDb and serving as CEO for 35 years, I have chosen to transition to my new role as Founder and Executive Chairman, passing the torch to Nikki Santoro as our new CEO,” Needham said in a statement. “Nikki’s strategic vision, deep understanding of our customers and products, and commitment to innovation have already delivered impressive business results during her tenure as COO. Her track record of driving growth and improving our products and services makes her the ideal person to guide IMDb in in a new era. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Nikki and the talented IMDb team in my new role as we build on IMDb’s legacy and shape the future of entertainment information.”
“Taking on the role of CEO at IMDb is both a tremendous honor and an exciting challenge,” said Santoro. “I am committed to leading our global team as we continue to elevate IMDb as the world’s premier entertainment resource, connecting global audiences with the content they love and supporting industry professionals with unparalleled data and insights, all powered by cutting-edge technology and a passionate community. When As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscapes of technology and entertainment, IMDb will be at the forefront, delighting fans, empowering creators and informing industry decisions.”
Santoro joined IMDb in 2016 and was named COO in 2021. She has led strategic development for advertising, content, product, technology and user experience, helping IMDb grow its core database and improve IMDbPro. Santoro has previously held leadership positions at Amazon, Microsoft and The Weather Channel. Her goals as CEO will be to continue to improve its core database, expand its advertising and Pro membership service, and its licensing business.
IMDb will host an industry dinner in Park City at the Sundance Film Festival on Jan. 27, a private event designed to foster industry connections and advancements in the digital entertainment landscape.
