Chad E. Gutstein Named CEO of Machinima

Posted on April 2, 2014

Chad E. Gutstein has been named the CEO of Machinima. He was formerly COO of the Ovation television network. Gutstein holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA in Economics from The Johns Hopkins University. Gutstein replaces co-founder Allen Debevoise who continues as chairman. Machinima was founded in 2000. The name machinima refers to creating videos in real-time gaming environments. The company's popular YouTube channel has over 11 million subscribers. Machinima says it gets over 2 billion video views monthly.

DeBevoise says in the announcement, "Machinima is ready for the next level, and Chad has all of the unique qualities we were seeking in a new CEO to bring us there. His fresh and respected outlook, deep knowledge of the TV and digital business, and proven track record will all benefit Machinima as we enter our next phase of growth. Chad's most recent experience building Ovation's brand and audience, and translating the value of its audience and programming to TV distributors and tier one advertisers, will help Machinima exponentially accelerate its mission."

Gutstein says, "Machinima is a pioneer in the online video space and virtually invented the MCN business model. It isn't every day one is offered the chance to grow a global, category leading consumer TV brand with a massive and highly engaged audience. We plan to profitably grow our business with engaging original programming, nurturing the best affiliate channel partner program, and creating innovative solutions to help marketers reach our young, male and highly mobile audience."

Machinima closed an $18 million round of financing led by Warner Bros. in early March.