Former National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) executives John Fithian, Patrick Corcoran, and Jackie Brenneman have recently launched a dynamic consulting firm called The Fithian Group. This new venture aims to provide strategic advice to global exhibition clients, assisting them with strategy, partnerships, innovation, and strategic communications. With their extensive experience in the cinema industry, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman are well-equipped to guide their clients through the ever-evolving landscape of the entertainment world.
Throughout their careers, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman have played integral roles in addressing and overcoming some of the cinema industry’s most significant challenges. Fithian, who retired from NATO in May after more than two decades at the helm, reflects on the tumultuous journey: “We have spent the last couple of decades helping to guide the cinema industry through the biggest challenges it has faced. Now, having survived those challenges, we want to help our industry clients seize opportunities and grow.”
One of the crucial milestones achieved during Fithian’s tenure at NATO was the inclusion of exhibition in the $15 billion congressional Covid-19 Relief package, known as the Save Our Stages initiative. This financial support granted small and mid-sized theaters and venues access to business loans and the Paycheck Protection Program, aiding them during the pandemic. Brenneman, who formerly served as NATO’s EVP and General Counsel, played a vital role in this achievement and has extensive experience in the cinema industry through her involvement with The Cinema Foundation, a sister organization of NATO.
Brenneman emphasizes the importance of collaboration in their approach: “The way we work has always been about collaboration. We extend that way of working to how we build value for our clients.” The team recognizes the value of strategic partnerships and their ability to drive growth and success. Throughout their tenure at NATO, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman actively forged connections with cinema owners around the world, technology companies, the creative community, and distributors. These alliances proved invaluable during times of crisis, and they believe they can leverage these partnerships to help their clients grow and thrive in times of opportunity.
Corcoran, NATO’s former VP and chief communications officer, recognizes the power of storytelling in shaping public perception and driving industry progress: “We have always believed that the cinema industry was essential and strong. Telling that story to the press, the public, and Wall Street has always been a priority for us.” With their deep understanding of the industry, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman understand that the cinema industry needs more: more movies, more innovation, more diversity, and more investment. They are committed to advocating for their clients and conveying this message of growth and vitality to the wider industry.
Fithian’s decision to retire last fall led to the appointment of Michael O’Leary, a seasoned professional who brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at the Entertainment Software Association, 21st Century Fox, and the Motion Picture Association. With O’Leary at the helm of NATO, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman were inspired to establish The Fithian Group, building upon their collective knowledge and experiences for the benefit of their clients and the industry as a whole.
The Fithian Group is poised to make a significant impact on the cinema industry. Through their comprehensive understanding, collaborative approach, and commitment to growth, Fithian, Corcoran, and Brenneman offer invaluable guidance to global exhibition clients. As the industry continues to navigate the evolving entertainment landscape, their expertise and strategic counsel will be crucial in seizing opportunities and building a prosperous future for the cinema industry.