Blum has a key role in DISH’s evolution to a “connectivity” company, helping it prepare for deploying wireless assets while keeping satellite and OTT customers. “Throughout DISH’s history, our success has been the product of long-term thinking and innovation,” says Blum, who reports directly to DISH chair Charlie Ergen. A veteran of the telecommunications industry, his previous work includes helping to establish US Supreme Court case law for copyright protection in the Grokster P2P file sharing case. Blum previously was a partner at Davis Wright Tremaine, focusing on copyright, the First Amendment and anti-piracy litigation.
What have been the most important legal issues in communications for you in the past year?
Throughout DISH’s history, our success has been the product of long-term thinking and innovation by a talented, dedicated team. This approach remains even more important today as we evolve to a ‘connectivity’ company, preparing for deployment of our wireless assets while continuing to serve our satellite and OTT customers.
How is today’s political environment impacting your job and the industry?
We’ve seen a lot of proposed consolidation in the industry over the past year. As we look at the impact of this changing landscape, our focus remains delivering the best options at the best price for our customers.
What is your golden rule for negotiating?
Never lose sight of our customers and our long-term business goals.