Rob Westerling’s career in the cinema industry has taken an interesting turn with his recent decision to return to Harkins as its VP of Content & Programming in Scottsdale, AZ. This move comes shortly after his brief stint as Regal Cinemas SVP of U.S. Content, where he previously held a similar position that was vacated by Andrew Turner. The sudden change in roles raises questions about the dynamics within the exhibition sector and the challenges faced by major cinema chains.
Harkins Theatres President and CEO, Mike Bowers, expressed his excitement at having Rob Westerling back on board, citing it as a testament to the company’s exceptional culture and its commitment to delivering the Ultimate Moviegoing Experience. Westerling is widely recognized as a highly skilled circuit exec in the eyes of studio distribution heads, adding value to Harkins’ leadership team.
The rapid turnover of executives in the exhibition industry, particularly at Regal Cinemas, reflects the uncertainty and challenges faced by major cinema chains. The recent rumors surrounding Regal’s financial stability, post-bankruptcy, and potential relapse into financial distress highlight the fragile nature of the industry. With parent company Cineworld considering the sale of its UK cinemas, the future of Regal and its competitors remains uncertain.
Rob Westerling brings over two decades of industry experience to his role, with the majority of his career spent at Regal Cinemas. Starting in 2001 at West Town Mall in Knoxville, TN, Westerling ascended through the ranks to become Head of Film in 2018. His decision to return to Harkins after a brief hiatus at Regal underscores the challenges and opportunities present in the dynamic cinema sector.
Rob Westerling’s journey as a circuit exec reflects the evolving landscape of the cinema industry and the challenges faced by major players in the exhibition sector. His decision to return to Harkins highlights the importance of culture, leadership, and industry insights in navigating the complexities of the moviegoing experience. As the industry continues to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics, executives like Rob Westerling play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cinema exhibition.