Susan Akens is Executive Director of the Ziffren Institute for Media, Entertainment, Technology and Sports Law at UCLA School of Law and Professor from Practice.

Akens was Executive Vice President, Business Affairs at CBS Studios International from 2006-2014, during which time she handled a broad range of entertainment law matters including playing a key role in CBS’ expansion into the digital/OTT arena. While at CBS she oversaw all international business and legal affairs, set strategy for the division and led a team based in the United States and Europe. Prior to CBS she was Executive Vice President, Business Affairs at Paramount Pictures International Television and, before that, Special Counsel to the entertainment department of O’Melveny & Myers LLP.

Akens graduated from Rutgers College of Pharmacy, Rutgers University with Highest Honors and is a registered pharmacist. She earned her J.D degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. She has spent the last 25 years active in the non-profit arena in Los Angeles, working with organizations such as the Alliance for Children’s Rights, assisting in community efforts such as Los Angeles Works and the Jordan High School Scholarship Program, and serving on the Boards of Directors of the Women’s Care Cottage and the American Red Cross, Los Angeles Chapter. Akens’ work has been recognized with several awards including the President’s Volunteer Service Award. She is also a member of ChIPS.