MGM poaches Minden, Dawson exits

MGM has hired Michael Minden as its business affairs chief for scripted TV.

He replaces the Laura Black Dawson.

Minden joins from Endemol Shine North America where he was senior VP of business affairs and head of entertainment legal.

MGM’s scripted slate includes Fargo and Vikings, and it has recently secured orders for Three Days of the Condor for DirecTV’s Audience Network and The Handmaid’s Tale for Hulu.

Minden, who was at MTV prior to Endemol Shine, will report to Brian Edwards, executive VP of MGM’s television operations, and also to Lesley Freeman, chief legal officer, when she joins the company from HBO in July.

“We’re excited to have Mike join MGM’s scripted television team,” Edwards said.  “He’s built great relationships throughout his career and brings wide, valuable experience to the company.”

Speaking about Black Dawson’s exit, he added: “Laura has done a terrific job at MGM and we wish her all the best for the future.”