Spark Networks Will Start 2016 With A New CTO

As the end of the year approaches, struggling Spark Networks has employed a new CTO.

Shailen Mistry will become the dating company’s new chief technology officer on the 4th January 2016.

Mistry will report to CEO Michael Egan and will have responsibility for the company’s global technology and technical operations.

Spark’s CEO, Michael Egan, said: “As we continue to grow the company by providing our customers with leading products and services, Shailen’s experience across the entire spectrum of front-end and back-end technologies will be an excellent addition to the team. Shailen has built a solid reputation as a technical leader and strong mentor and we’re excited to have him join Spark.”

Mistry joins from British risk management company Dun & Bradstreet, where he served as the VP of Engineering.

Before this, Mistry was the Director of Online Development and Strategy for American Express.

He has also previously held tech roles at Crystal Coding Concepts, J.R. Cigars, and E-Intertainment, after studying at UCLA and Berkeley.

Speaking about his appointment, Mistry said: “Spark has undergone a significant amount of change in the last year and is ready to start to grow again.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to be a key part of the leadership team and excited to help lead innovation in an industry that is so dynamic and fundamentally helps individuals.”

In November, Spark Networks launched revamped versions of flagship brands JDate and Christian Mingle.

Earlier this week, it was also announced that Spark insider Lloyd Miller became one of the company’s largest shareholders, buying over 33,000 shares, meaning he owns 10.29% of the business.