Michael Burns serves as Vice Chair of Lionsgate Studios Corp., a position he has held since 2015, overseeing strategic initiatives and corporate development for one of Hollywood's leading independent studios. With over two decades at Lionsgate, Burns joined the company in 1999 as Chief Financial Officer, bringing a robust background in investment banking from his time at firms like Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette and CIBC Oppenheimer. His financial acumen and deal-making expertise have been instrumental in transforming Lionsgate from a niche distributor into a global entertainment powerhouse. Under Burns' leadership, Lionsgate executed landmark acquisitions, including Summit Entertainment in 2012—which brought the blockbuster Twilight franchise into the fold—and the merger with Starz in 2016, significantly expanding the company's reach into premium television and streaming. He played a pivotal role in financing and structuring high-profile projects like the Hunger Games series, John Wick franchise, and La La Land, contributing to billions in box office revenue and numerous Academy Award nominations. Burns' strategic vision has also driven Lionsgate's pivot toward streaming and international markets, bolstering its library of over 18,000 titles. Today, as Vice Chair, Burns continues to guide Lionsgate's growth amid industry disruptions, championing innovative content partnerships and mergers, such as the recent Eagles studio joint venture. His tenure has earned him recognition as a key architect of Lionsgate's resilience and success, with a track record of delivering shareholder value through astute financial stewardship and bold creative investments.