Col Needham, the founder of IMDb, the online database that provides information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities, is stepping down as CEO after 35 years at the helm. Needham, who founded IMDb in 1990 at the age of 23, will transition to a new role as executive chair, paving the way for Nikki Santoro, the company's current Chief Operating Officer, to take over as CEO.

Santoro's appointment marks a significant milestone for the company, as she becomes the first woman to hold the position of CEO. Needham expressed his confidence in Santoro's abilities, citing her "strategic vision, deep understanding of our customers and products, and commitment to innovation" as key factors in her selection. During her tenure as COO, Santoro has already delivered impressive business results, making her the ideal person to guide IMDb into a new era, according to Needham.

Santoro brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having served as COO since 2021 and being with the company since 2016. Prior to joining IMDb, she held leadership positions at Amazon, Microsoft, and The Weather Channel. Under her leadership, IMDb has expanded its database and improved its IMDbPro membership, demonstrating her ability to drive growth and enhance the company's products and services.

The transition comes at a time when the entertainment industry is undergoing significant changes, with the rise of streaming services and shifting consumer habits. As IMDb looks to the future, Santoro's appointment is seen as a key move to position the company for continued success and innovation. With her deep understanding of the company's customers and products, Santoro is well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape and drive IMDb forward.

Needham's decision to step down as CEO marks the end of an era for IMDb, which he founded as a passion project in 1990. Under his leadership, the company grew from a small online database to a powerhouse within the entertainment industry, providing information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities to millions of users worldwide. As executive chair, Needham will continue to play a role in shaping the company's direction, ensuring a smooth transition and providing guidance to Santoro in her new role.

The appointment of Santoro as CEO is seen as a positive move for the company, bringing a fresh perspective and new leadership to IMDb. As the company looks to the future, Santoro's vision and expertise will be instrumental in driving growth, innovation, and continued success. With her at the helm, IMDb is poised to continue its reign as a leading online database and authority on the entertainment industry.