LOS ANGELES--(Business Wire)--
Saban Capital Group, Inc. (SCG), a private investment firm
specializing in the media, entertainment and communications
industries, today announced that it has named Craig Cooper as Managing
Director and head of its new digital media investments group. Cooper
will focus on new media, wireless and consumer Internet investment
opportunities in the U.S and international markets as well as
overseeing the digital media strategies of Saban Capital's portfolio
investments.
Cooper, who has extensive investment experience in the media,
wireless and technology industries will be based in Los Angeles, which
is fast becoming the hub of new media investment and entrepreneurial
talent. Cooper has most recently been a Director of PureVideo Networks
(StupidVideos.com and GrindTV.com), AmpTech Design, Thumbplay, YouMail
and EBT Mobile China PLC, the leading Shanghai based wireless products
and services company. Cooper was also recently a Venture Partner at
VantagePoint Venture Partners and was a founding Partner in the
SoftBank Capital Technology Fund.
Prior to joining SoftBank, Cooper was the co-founder of Boost
Mobile USA, which was sold to Nextel in 2003 and has been a founder or
co-founder of a number of technology and media companies throughout
his career. He was also a Senior Associate in one of Australia's
largest National law firms and a partner in the largest independent
mobile retail distribution company in Australia.
Commenting on Cooper's hire and the formation of the digital media
investments division, Haim Saban, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
of Saban Capital Group said, "We're thrilled that Craig has agreed to
join our team. We have known Craig for years and have long admired his
proven track record as a thought leader in the world of new media. His
creative vision for the future of our investment platform will be a
major asset to Saban Capital as we continue to make strategic
investments in new media and consumer Internet."
Cooper said, "I look forward to working with Haim Saban, Adam
Chesnoff and the team on new opportunities for SCG. The success of
SCG's media and entertainment investments, its strong management team
and wide range of resources provide a solid platform from which to
grow the business. SCG is a truly strategic partner for new media
companies and entrepreneurs and we hope to be able to leverage the
national and international network of the group to drive the success
of our portfolio companies. With the formation of the new digital
media group and team, Saban Capital Group will have the depth and
commitment to invest across all stages of digital media; from early
stage right through to later stage, private equity styled investments"
Adam Chesnoff, President and Chief Operating Officer of Saban
Capital Group said, "We look forward to pursing innovative investment
opportunities in this new business arena. New media, wireless and
consumer Internet industries are continuing to grow exponentially and
we are excited that Craig will be leading our efforts in this arena.
His ability to identify the next big thing is second to none and we
welcome his invaluable creative experience."
About Saban Capital Group
Saban Capital Group, Inc. ("SCG") is a private investment firm
specializing in the media and entertainment industries. Based in Los
Angeles, SCG was established in 2001 by Haim Saban, founder of global
family entertainment company Saban Entertainment, a global television
broadcasting, production, distribution, merchandising and music
company that was sold to the Walt Disney Corporation in October 2001
in a $5.2 billion transaction. The firm makes both controlling and
minority investments in public and private companies and adds
strategic value through its established relationships and industry
experience. In addition, SCG owns and operates a music company, Saban
Music Group, which operates an independent music-publishing company.
Sard Verbinnen & Co
Stephanie Pillersdorf/Cassandra Bujarski, 212-687-8080
Copyright Business Wire 2008
