Ben Kohn
About Ben Kohn
Ben Kohn - Chief Executive Officer of Playboy
Ben Kohn currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer, President, and Director at Playboy. He assumed the role of CEO in January 2018, having served as interim CEO from May 2016 to December 2017. Kohn’s leadership at Playboy is marked by his strategic vision and transition of the company into various new ventures. He has been a member of Playboy's Board of Directors since March 2011, bringing a wealth of experience in media and entertainment to the helm of the organization.
Ben Kohn's Tenure at Rizvi Traverse
Before his current role, Ben Kohn was a Managing Partner at the private equity firm Rizvi Traverse from 2004 to December 2018. During his tenure, he led successful buyouts of major media and entertainment companies. Notably, he was instrumental in taking Playboy private in 2011. Kohn’s tenure at Rizvi Traverse has been defined by his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and execute high-value transactions, positioning him as a notable figure in private equity.
Ben Kohn's Early Career
Ben Kohn began his career at Cowen & Company in the Mergers and Acquisitions group. He then moved on to Angelo, Gordon & Co., where he served as a Vice President, focusing on private equity and special situations. These early roles equipped Kohn with a strong foundation in financial analysis and investment strategy, skills that he would later leverage in his executive roles and in leading high-profile buyouts in the media and entertainment sectors.
Ben Kohn's Educational Background
Ben Kohn received a Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM) from Tulane University. He later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Columbia University. This educational background provided Kohn with the analytical and strategic insights necessary for his extensive career in private equity and corporate leadership. His academic achievements underpin his proficiency in managing complex business operations and executing high-stakes financial strategies.
Ben Kohn's Role on the Board of Directors of SESAC
In addition to his executive role at Playboy, Ben Kohn serves on the Board of Directors for SESAC, a performance rights organization. His involvement with SESAC underscores his commitment to the broader media and entertainment industry, as he contributes his expertise in corporate governance and strategic oversight to support the organization’s mission and operations.