Business

Friend MTS announced an expanded leadership team with the appointments of John Ward to Executive Vice President, Americas and Andrew Shindler to General Counsel.

Together with content owners, broadcasters and operators, Friend MTS provides end-to-end technology solutions to address real-world piracy to safeguard valuable content and revenue for a global media industry.

The announcement was made today by Derek Chang, Chief Executive Officer of Friend MTS.

“John and Andrew are experienced executives with a tremendous background in sports and media who will be important additions to the team as we continue to develop industry leading content protection products and technology,” said Chang. “Their expertise will enhance our ability to provide our valued customers and partners with cutting-edge advanced piracy solutions as we innovate to meet their needs.”

Ward joins Friend MTS with a deep background in broadcast media, and is responsible for creating and managing both the sales and operations across North and South America. Most recently, Ward served as Chief Technology Officer for iNDEMAND, a U.S. cable consortium, where he was responsible for the distribution of premium VOD & PPV entertainment to more than 200 North American TV operators.

Prior, Ward held senior positions with Deluxe Creative Services, AT&T Mobility & Entertainment and DIRECTV, where he managed broadcast operations and production for the original content and sports businesses.

Previously, he held a variety of positions with FOX Sports Productions, where he supervised all studio production for FOX NFL, MLB and NASCAR coverage, and set up the production and broadcast operations for Speed and Fuel TV.

Ward also was the executive in charge of broadcast for NFL Europe in London, and has received 12 Sports Emmy awards in his career.

He is based in Santa Rosa, California.

Shindler brings over three decades of legal experience in technology, commercial and intellectual property law, with a particular focus on sports and information technology.

As General Counsel, he will oversee all legal matters for Friend MTS. Previously, Shindler was Partner for Locke Lord (UK) LLP, where he represented clients in technology. He was also Partner and Head of IT at the leading European law firm, SJ Berwin LLP, (latterly part of King & Wood Mallesons), for 20 years.

Shindler has acted on many high-profile complex transactions, been ‘rated’ in the leading legal directories, and led a number of award-winning legal teams, including Commercial Law Firm of the Year.

He is based in London.