MUMBAI: Rick Sands, COO of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM), has decided to part ways from the studio in order to pursue other opportunities in entertainment and content.

MGM chairman and CEO Harry E. Sloan said, "We appreciate Rick's contributions in helping to revitalize MGM over these past two years. Sands' contributions included the revitalization of a full service theatrical marketing and distribution infrastructure that allowed for the North American release of the studio's films."

Sands, who was with MGM since January 2006, accomplished several key strategic goals for the studio.

To maximize MGM's library assets, Sands was instrumental in establishing a home entertainment structure in conjunction with Twentieth Century Fox. He also helped the studio develop worldwide television sales and digital media divisions.

Prior to joining MGM, Sands served as president and COO of DreamWorks SKG. At DreamWorks he was responsible for all aspects of the studio's business and creative operations prior to its sale to Paramount Pictures.

Sands also held key leadership roles within Miramax Films where he oversaw production, marketing and administration as COO.

Sands began his entertainment career in 1978 at Columbia Pictures where he served as VP distribution.