Brian Stearns

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Co-Head Entertainment Industries, Bank of America Merrill Lynch

Brian Stearns is Senior Vice President and Co-Head of the Entertainment Industries Group for Bank of America Merrill Lynch. He began his career on the content side of the Entertainment Industry holding various positions in physical production for motion picture and television companies. Prior to banking, he also held marketing and international sales roles with independent film producers such as Morgan Creek Productions, The Shooting Gallery and Aura Entertainment.

In 2005, Stearns transitioned into motion picture and television finance with the French bank Natixis. With an initial focus on project lending, his industry coverage universe expanded to include corporate credit and structured finance. In late 2008, he joined Union Bank’s Entertainment Lending practice where his efforts centered on client acquisition and deal structure.

Stearns joined BofA Merrill Lynch at the start of 2011. He is tasked with leading the Bank’s entertainment practice where his responsibilities include portfolio strategy, client coverage, credit execution and risk management. Stearns holds Series 7, 79 and 63 securities licenses and seeks to leverage the Bank’s capital markets platform for industry clients.

Stearns is a Board member of Education Through Music Los Angeles, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of musical curriculum in LA public schools. Stearns lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two children.