Skip to content
MK

Michael Kassan

Dealmaker

Michael Kassan is one of the most influential dealmakers and connectors in the media, marketing, and advertising technology industries, best known for founding MediaLink, the strategic advisory and business development firm he built into an indispensable power broker between brands, agencies, media companies, and technology platforms. For nearly two decades, MediaLink served as the behind-the-scenes engine facilitating some of the most significant partnerships, acquisitions, and strategic alignments in the industry, making Kassan a fixture at events like CES, Cannes Lions, and Advertising Week where his firm orchestrated high-level meetings and deal flow. Kassan's career spans decades in media and entertainment law, television, and advertising services before he founded MediaLink in 2003. He grew the firm into a powerhouse that was acquired by UTA (United Talent Agency) in 2021, reflecting the convergence of entertainment, talent, and marketing services. His network and influence extended across virtually every major holding company, streaming platform, and AdTech vendor, giving him unparalleled visibility into industry trends and M&A activity. His departure from MediaLink amid reported disputes with UTA in 2023 marked a significant industry moment. Following his exit from MediaLink, Kassan launched 3C Ventures, continuing his work as a strategic advisor and investor at the intersection of media, marketing, and technology. Despite the turbulent circumstances of his MediaLink departure, his reputation as a connector and dealmaker with deep industry relationships remains a defining asset. He continues to be a sought-after voice on the future of advertising, media consolidation, and the evolving role of technology in brand building.

Last updated Jul 22, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment · Connections updated Jul 27, 2026

Role
Founder & CEO
Company
3C Ventures
Based
New York, New York, United States
Boards
1
Connections
2
Years in industry
30 years

Bio

Michael Kassan is one of the most influential dealmakers and connectors in the media, marketing, and advertising technology industries, best known for founding MediaLink, the strategic advisory and business development firm he built into an indispensable power broker between brands, agencies, media companies, and technology platforms. For nearly two decades, MediaLink served as the behind-the-scenes engine facilitating some of the most significant partnerships, acquisitions, and strategic alignments in the industry, making Kassan a fixture at events like CES, Cannes Lions, and Advertising Week where his firm orchestrated high-level meetings and deal flow. Kassan's career spans decades in media and entertainment law, television, and advertising services before he founded MediaLink in 2003. He grew the firm into a powerhouse that was acquired by UTA (United Talent Agency) in 2021, reflecting the convergence of entertainment, talent, and marketing services. His network and influence extended across virtually every major holding company, streaming platform, and AdTech vendor, giving him unparalleled visibility into industry trends and M&A activity. His departure from MediaLink amid reported disputes with UTA in 2023 marked a significant industry moment. Following his exit from MediaLink, Kassan launched 3C Ventures, continuing his work as a strategic advisor and investor at the intersection of media, marketing, and technology. Despite the turbulent circumstances of his MediaLink departure, his reputation as a connector and dealmaker with deep industry relationships remains a defining asset. He continues to be a sought-after voice on the future of advertising, media consolidation, and the evolving role of technology in brand building.

Career

  • Founder & CEO

    MediaLink · 2003-2023

  • President & COO

    Initiative Media · Late 1990s-early 2000s

  • Entertainment & Media Attorney

    Various firms · 1980s-1990s

Board memberships

Various media and marketing company boards (specific current memberships not publicly confirmed)

Advisory roles

3C Ventures portfolio companies

Expertise & education

Expertise

Strategic AdvisoryMedia and Marketing M&ABusiness DevelopmentBrand and Agency PartnershipsAdTech Ecosystem NavigationMedia ConsolidationC-Suite AdvisoryStreaming and Digital Media Strategy

Education

  • JD, Loyola Law School
  • BA, University of Southern California

Speaking topics

The future of media and marketingBrand and agency transformationMedia consolidation and M&A trendsThe convergence of entertainment, technology, and advertisingLeadership and building industry relationships

Recognition

Notable achievements

  • Founded MediaLink in 2003 and built it into the advertising industry's most influential strategic advisory firm
  • Orchestrated MediaLink's acquisition by UTA (United Talent Agency) in 2021, reflecting convergence of entertainment and marketing services
  • Established MediaLink as the unofficial convener of the advertising industry at CES, Cannes Lions, and Advertising Week
  • Launched 3C Ventures following departure from MediaLink to continue strategic advisory and investment work

Awards

Advertising Age Media MavenFrequently cited on industry power lists including Adweek and Ad Age

Publications

  • Frequent contributor and quoted source in Adweek, Ad Age, The Wall Street Journal, and The Hollywood Reporter
Connection details