Richard (Rich) Gelfond is Chief Executive Officer of IMAX Corporation, one of the world's leading entertainment technology companies. Under his leadership, IMAX has evolved from a niche purveyor of nature and science documentaries to a Hollywood movie force — both as a high-tech exhibitor and a creative partner in the movie-making process. IMAX’s proprietary technology has also evolved with time to suit the needs of moviegoers around the world, and today provides the public with a premium entertainment experience. IMAX has more than 1,700 theatres in over 80 countries, which showcase Hollywood blockbusters and local-language content to fans around the world. Gelfond, one of entertainment’s longest-tenured executives, joined IMAX in 1994 as co-chairman after his firm, Cheviot Capital Advisors, bought the company. Gelfond previously served as an investment banker in mergers and acquisitions with Drexel Burnham Lambert. Gelfond holds a BA from Stony Brook University and a law degree from Northwestern University. Gelfond is a member of the Motion Picture Academy of Arts & Science. In 1996, Gelfond and investment partner Brad Wechsler received an Academy Award on behalf of IMAX for Scientific and Technical Achievement.