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Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob to Step Down at End of 2026

He will remain in place to ensure a smooth leadership handover after building Cineplex into Canada’s leading theatre chain.

CEO of Cineplex, Ellis Jacob poses for a photograph on Thursday, Feb., 11, 2021. (Christopher Katsarov/The Globe and Mail)
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Ellis Jacob
Ellis Jacob, president and chief executive of Cineplex Entertainment, poses for a photograph after the company's annual general meeting in Toronto on Wednesday, May 17, 2017.

Overview

  • Jacob announced his retirement plan on June 27, 2025, setting his final day as CEO for December 31, 2026, with a commitment to lead through the transition.
  • He has led Cineplex’s expansion through mergers like the 2005 Famous Players deal and by forging partnerships with Hollywood studios, assembling 172 theatres and entertainment venues across Canada.
  • His leadership saw Cineplex withstand the aborted $2.1 billion Cineworld takeover in 2020, navigate pandemic closures and industry strikes, and capitalize on a recent box-office rebound.
  • Board chair Phyllis Yaffe lauded his role in establishing Cineplex as a top global exhibitor and voiced confidence in finding his successor.
  • His achievements have been recognized with awards including the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, the NATO Marquee Award and a tribute at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards.