The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) announced today the retirement of NATO CEO & President, John Fithian, effective May 1, 2023. NATO’s Executive Board has begun a search process for Fithian’s successor.

Fithian’s retirement marks the end of thirty years of service to the association. Initially engaged as outside counsel to NATO in 1992, Fithian assumed the presidency in 2000, at the beginning of a period of profound change in the industry (see attachment).

“It is nearly impossible to sum up a career of three decades in a few sentences,” said Fithian. “I will leave that to others. But my highest goal was always to leave this organization and this industry stronger and more effective than I found it – and more importantly – to ensure that it remains strong and effective after I am gone. The professional and experienced staff I leave behind and the culture of service we have built together is a legacy to be proud of.”

“John’s impact on the movie theater industry is profound and lasting,” said NATO Chairman Rolando Rodriguez. “Whether in Hollywood, Washington, D.C., or internationally, NATO’s reach and effectiveness as an advocate for the movie theater industry has grown and sharpened under John’s leadership. We have big shoes to fill, and we offer John our profoundest thanks for all his years of service.”

About NATO
The National Association of Theatre Owners is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 35,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 32,000 additional screens in 101 countries worldwide.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a second office in Los Angeles, California, NATO represents its members in the heart of the nation’s capital as well as the center of the entertainment industry. www.natoonline.org @NATOCinemas