Ascent Capital Group Inc. announced that William Fitzgerald has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of company, however, he will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board. The company's Board of Directors has appointed William Niles, currently Executive Vice President and General Counsel and Secretary of company, as CEO. Mr. Niles will continue to serve as the General Counsel and Secretary of the company. Mr. Niles has served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel and Secretary of the company, since its inception in 2008 and as a director of MONI Smart Security since its acquisition by Ascent Capital Group, Inc. in 2010.

Prior to 2008, Mr. Niles served as Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Ascent Media Group Inc. and as a director of AMG's respective operating  subsidiaries.  Mr. Niles also served as co-managing director of AMG from 2006 to 2008.