Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has promoted Michael Kustermann from president to CEO. The board of directors, including former CEO Shelli Taylor and executive chairman Tim League, named Kustermann as CEO following Taylor’s decision to retire. Under Kustermann’s leadership, the company will continue its path for growth and investment in its theatres, unparalleled moviegoing experience, and building out the best team in the exhibition industry. Taylor will remain on the Alamo Drafthouse board of directors.
“I am humbled to become Alamo Drafthouse Cinema’s next CEO, with reverence for all that we do, have done, and will do,” Kustermann said. “I have the awesome privilege of now leading the best teammates in the business who make all the difference. They create an unrivaled guest experience, and we will continue to expand and innovate, creating amazing movie memories for our guests wherever we go. I am confident that as this industry continues to build back, we will keep leading the way, just as we have proven we can with over 18 months of solid double-digit growth versus the industry’s recovery. Movies exist to make an impact in our lives and theatres deliver that.”
“I’m excited for Michael to lead our next phase of growth and evolution. He and I have worked closely over the past two years, and I know he will continue to drive our core values and build upon our vision to be the best damn cinema that ever was or will be,” said Alamo Drafthouse founder Tim League. “Shelli came into Alamo at a time when our company and industry were fighting for our very existence. She guided the company through those dark days, all the way to our current industry-topping performance and renewed expansion. I will be forever grateful that she steadily guided the ship through such an intense storm.”
“I am deeply grateful for the support and trust extended to me by Tim. His guidance and belief in my abilities have been invaluable throughout our journey together,” Taylor said. “As I pass the torch to Michael, I do so with immense pride and confidence. Michael’s leadership qualities and alignment with our company’s vision make him the perfect successor. I am proud to have worked alongside our incredible teammates, and I am excited about the bright future ahead under Michael’s capable leadership.”
Kustermann will step into the role of CEO, effective August 11, following a period of transition with Taylor.