Ascent Capital Group, Inc. announced that Jeffery Gardner has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Monitronics International, effective September 10, 2015. Mr. Gardner will succeed Michael Haislip, who will be retiring from Monitronics as previously announced, but will stay on as an advisor to the company to ensure a seamless transition. Mr. Gardner brings over 25 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and has specific expertise in the areas of operations management, strategic development, finance, accounting and financial reporting.

Most recently, Mr. Gardner served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Windstream Holdings, Inc. Mr. Gardner currently serves on the Board of Directors for CalAmp Corporation and the Qorvo Corporation, where he is also Chairman of the audit committee.