Retiring Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob to Be Honored at CinemaCon
•February 18, 2026
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Why It Matters
Jacob’s departure signals a major leadership shift for the largest Canadian exhibitor, influencing industry strategies amid post‑pandemic recovery. Recognizing his contributions underscores the ongoing relevance of the shared theatrical experience.
Key Takeaways
- •Jacob led Cineplex for 23 years.
- •Cineplex now fourth largest North American theater chain.
- •Award highlights importance of preserving shared theatrical experience.
- •Jacob served as Cinema United board chair 2018‑2020.
- •His retirement signals leadership transition across exhibition industry.
Pulse Analysis
Ellis Jacob’s tenure at Cineplex exemplifies how visionary leadership can reshape a legacy brand. Taking the helm in 2003, he guided the company through digital disruption, expanding its footprint and diversifying revenue streams to become North America’s fourth‑largest exhibitor. His strategic focus on premium formats, loyalty programs, and ancillary services not only boosted profitability but also reinforced the cultural relevance of moviegoing in a streaming‑dominated era.
The Legend of Cinema Award, introduced by Cinema United in 2023, serves as a barometer for industry values, celebrating individuals who champion the communal magic of theaters. Jacob’s receipt of the honor, following his 2022 Marquee Award, highlights his role as a mentor and advocate within the exhibition community. By fostering collaboration among theater owners and supporting policy initiatives, he helped stabilize an industry that faced unprecedented turbulence during the pandemic.
Jacob’s upcoming retirement will prompt Cineplex to navigate a critical succession phase while the broader sector grapples with evolving consumer habits and rising operational costs. New leadership will need to build on his legacy, leveraging data‑driven insights and emerging technologies such as immersive formats and AI‑enhanced operations. The transition underscores the importance of adaptable executive vision to sustain cinema’s relevance and profitability in the next decade.
Retiring Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob to Be Honored at CinemaCon
Ellis Jacob, who is retiring this year after 23 years as president and CEO of Canada’s largest theater chain, Cineplex, will be honored by Cinema United at its annual show CinemaCon in April with the organization’s Legend of Cinema Award.
“Ellis has been a leader at the forefront of global exhibition for decades,” said Michael O’Leary, president/CEO of Cinema United. “He has created an entertainment empire that cannot be matched and has been a tireless advocate on behalf of theatre owners around the world. He is a beloved figure who fully embodies the passion of our industry, and we are honored to be able to show our heartfelt appreciation in this way.”
The Legend of Cinema Award was created by Cinema United in 2023 to “recognizes those individuals who have dedicated their careers to
preserving and elevating the unparalleled magic of the shared theatrical experience,” with Martin Scorsese named as its first recipient.
Jacob, who has been involved in the movie theater business since 1987, became president and CEO of Cineplex in 2003. Since then, he has overseen the growth of the century-old Canadian theater chain, which is the fourth largest in North America.
“No one has played a more central role in guiding our industry through the turbulence and uncertainty of the past years than Ellis,” added O’Leary. “His role in positioning exhibition for future success simply cannot be overstated. He has been a strong supporter of Cinema United and a valued mentor to me in my capacity as CEO. On behalf of the entire exhibition industry, we want to thank Ellis for everything he has done.”
In addition to his work at Cineplex, Jacob served as chairman of Cinema United’s executive board from 2018 to 2020. In 2022, he received CinemaCon’s Marquee Award, given to top executives in movie exhibition.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Legend of Cinema Award. I have spent my entire career believing in the power of moviegoing to bring people together. The theatrical experience has always held a unique place in our culture and I am truly humbled to be recognized with this award. I have been fortunate to work with inspiring partners across the exhibition community who share a commitment to ensuring that cinemas continue to thrive,” said Jacob.
CinemaCon will be held in Las Vegas from April 13-16.
The post Retiring Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob to Be Honored at CinemaCon appeared first on TheWrap.
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