MPAA Nixes Bob Job
Kerrey's Next Step Uncertain
Monday, September 13th, 2010
Kerrey, as always, is hoping to add a new chapter to his varies professional career.
After serving in the Special Forces during the Vietnam War, he spent ten years running a chain of fitness centers and restaurants in Nebraska. Following that, Kerrey launched his political career and served as Senator of Nebraska from 1989 to 2001 when he came to The New School.
In May, Variety reported that Kerrey was in negotiations to become the chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America, a position that pays about $1.2 million a year. The news made sense to many since the MPAA was the long-time fiefdom of another politico, Jack Valenti, who died in 2007.
At the end of July, however, in a surprise move, the MPAA announced that they were withdrawing their offer.
The MPAA is a non-profit organization based out of Washington whose members include Hollywood’s leading production companies. As well as judging parameters for movie ratings, the MPAA is responsible for protecting the interests of these production companies. Because the MPAA is highly involved in anti-piracy campaigns, the CEO job demands considerable international travel to confront the issue of global piracy.
On July 29, the *Los Angeles Times* wrote that the travel, as well as Kerrey’s lack of desire to move his family from New York to Washington were two of the reasons that the deal fell through.
"An agreement could not be reached and both sides agreed it would be best to break off discussions," Kerrey told the *Los Angeles Times*.
The Motion Picture Association of America is replacing former CEO Dan Glickman, a former member of Clinton’s cabinet, who resigned in January.
Bob Pisano, the president of the MPAA is currently serving as the interim CEO. The MPAA has yet to name a new candidate for CEO and seems to be in no rush to do so.
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