James Costos

Ambassador Designate James Costos

James Costos was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the new U.S. Ambassador to Spain and Andorra on August 1, 2013, and sworn in on August 22, 2013.

Prior to his appointment, Ambassador Costos was Vice President for Home Box Office. In this capacity, he was responsible for leading HBO’s newly created global licensing, retail and marketing division which he established for the company to further expand HBO's domestic and international interests.

Ambassador Costos began his career as a fashion and retail executive in New York City, including positions as Vice President of Retail Operation for TOD'S and Vice President of Retail Operations for Hermes of Paris. He then took on the role of Head of Promotions and Consumer Products at start-up production company, Revolution Studios.

Before joining HBO, he was President and CEO of the entertainment marketing and licensing agency Eight Cylinders, Inc.
In addition to his responsibilities as Vice President for HBO, Ambassador Costos also serves on the Board of Directors of the United Sates Humane Society, the largest animal protection organization in the United States. He is also a passionate supporter of several cultural and humanitarian organizations, including the Santa Monica Museum of Art and the Human Rights Campaign.

Ambassador Costos earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts in 1985. He is most recently is a resident of Los Angeles, California where he resides with his partner of 14 years, Michael S. Smith.