Noted studio chief Jon Feltheimer, Co-Chairman and CEO of Lionsgate, will be keynote speaker for the 2009 NATPE Market & Conference, January 26-29 in Las Vegas. The gathering by the National Association of Television Program Executives will focus on “Content, Commerce, Connections” as its theme.
In his role at Lionsgate, Feltheimer is known for leading one of the world’s leading next generation filmed entertainment studios. “Our Conference theme this year is Content, Commerce, Connections. Jon Feltheimer’s remarkable accomplishments at Lionsgate are rooted in his unparalleled ability to combine the flexibility and entrepreneurial culture of an independent with the financial and strategic relationships of a major studio. We are delighted that Jon has graciously agreed to set the stage for another successful NATPE,” said NATPE President and CEO Rick Feldman.
Other Conference highlights include a major expansion and enhancement of the exhibition floor and a day-long executive management program presented in association with the USC Marshall School of Business/RUI entitled Managing Change in a Turbulent Media Landscape.
NATPE said it has made a number of enhancements to the exhibition floor, doubling its space and offering new destinations for the benefit of attendees. The What’s Next Demo Lab, located in the newly designed Technology & Emerging Media Zone, will feature cutting-edge demos that showcase how technology is shaping the content lifecycle. A multi-functional Digital Theater for demos, digital briefings and interactive chats will offer seating for up to 100. The Celebrity Chef Kitchen will showcase the hottest TV celebrity chefs demonstrating their culinary skills, trying out their favorite recipes and interacting with the crowd. And, for the first time, a Signature Restaurant & Café will be available for power lunches right on the NATPE floor. Companies can reserve tables with service options.
Other innovations include a B2B lounge where agents, advertisers/ad agency and brand executives along with other invited guests can hold meetings and book meeting rooms and a Networking Lounge with e-mail kiosks and electrical charging stations. NATPE will also offer free WiFi Internet connectivity throughout the exhibit floor.
