Today, the free-to-stream service Kanopy announced Kevin Sayer will take the place of founder Olivia Humphrey as she relocates to her original home of Australia. This new change is effective October 21, 2019. Humphrey will remain as Kanopy’s Executive Chairman of the Board.
“It has been a great honor to serve as the CEO of Kanopy since founding the company 12 years ago and I am incredibly proud of everything our team has accomplished together, but this transition is about my family,” Humphrey said. “Kevin is the right leader to continue Kanopy’s rapid growth and he will be able to apply his significant experience working with libraries to deepen relationships with our partners.”
“I am honored to be named the second CEO in Kanopy’s history,” Sayar said. “Under Olivia’s leadership, Kanopy has grown from an ambitious dream into a critical digital media resource for library patrons worldwide. I look forward to working with the company’s talented team to further its impressive growth by delivering value that exceeds the expectations of our library customers, content partners, and users.”
Sayer has an extensive background in higher education, coming from his most recent position at ProQuest, a provider of content and software solutions that supports critical research within the global academic market. During his tenure at ProQuest, Sayar served in multiple roles, including senior vice president and general manager of ProQuest Books, as well as SVP and GM of the software business unit, ProQuest Workflow Solutions.
Prior to ProQuest, Sayar was the president and co-founder of ebrary, one of the first electronic book internet companies.
This follows other recent changes to Kanopy’s leadership, including the addition of a new Chief Technology Officer and Chief Product Officer earlier this month.
Kanopy is a free streaming service offered through universities and public libraries that specializes in ‘thoughtful entertainment.’ It’s a great, ad-free resource for cord cutters who love movies, especially classics and world cinema. They also feature things like kids programming, documentaries, and learning courses. On their website, you can search for your local participating library branch, or university if you’re a student or professor and set up a free account using your library card or student login.
NOTE: Not all libraries and universities offer Kanopy. Check with your local branch and see what streaming and media options are available in your area.
Kanopy is available on all major streaming devices, including iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, Chromecast and Roku. For more information, please visit www.kanopy.com.
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