About
Brendan Handler, Managing Partner
Prior to founding 8616 Productions LLC, Brendan was a senior executive at 21st Century Fox and Sony Pictures, spanning both production and distribution.
Most recently, he built and lead the FoxNext VR Studio, an award-winning commercial production division, after having championed and spearheaded Virtual Reality at 20th Century Fox film studio. Upon his arrival at Fox, he directed Technology Business Development for the Home Entertainment division, helping to launch the Fox Innovation Lab and, in partnership with Samsung, create the 4K Blu-ray market.
At Sony Pictures, Brendan first led Business Development and Strategic Planning for Home Entertainment division. He then built a new global commercial strategy department to maximize profitability - while navigating market upheaval and digital transition in the wake of the Great Recession. He also built a global business intelligence platform and supported the launch of the industry-leading early EST (digital sell-through) window.
Prior to his career in entertainment, Brendan worked in international trade - first launching his own export company, and then turning around a global trading company. After earning an MBA at UCLA Anderson as a Carter Fellow, Brendan developed and executed plan for startup trade finance fund for Pacific Life.
Brendan earned his undergrad degree from UCLA in Art History. He has been able to combine both his passions for the arts and business in entertainment, creating a strong platform to make an impact for the companies that he has served.