Disney Consolidates SE Asia Media Units

Disney has combined its TV, mobile and online businesses in Southeast Asia, to deepen engagement across audience segments in the region.

Amit Malhotra is leading the new division, called Disney Media Networks, reporting to The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia MD Robert Gilby.

The move brings together Disney’s channels, media distribution, games and apps, as well as its Maker Studios online video network, but excludes ESPN.

Malhotra most recently oversaw movie marketing and distribution in the region, serving as GM of Studios over the last two years.

Press release in full below:

Disney Southeast Asia Consolidates Television, Mobile and Online Businesses

Amit Malhotra appointed General Manager of newly formed Disney Media Networks division 

SINGAPORE (7 September, 2016) –The Walt Disney Company South East Asia today announced the formation of an integrated media networks organization combining all of its Disney Channels, Media Distribution, Games & Apps and Maker Studios businesses (and excluding ESPN).  Amit Malhotra, who has worked for Disney for over 12 years will lead the team reporting to Robert Gilby, Managing Director - The Walt Disney Company South East Asia.

Disney Media Networks will work with platforms, broadcasters, telcos and digital media to provide best-in-class content tailored for audiences across the region and accelerate opportunities across mobile and social platforms. Mr. Malhotra will focus on audience engagement, building brand affinity and driving monetization with a compelling portfolio of video content, apps and games across all media platforms.

“Mobile & Social Media is providing an exciting opportunity to extend and deepen the storytelling experience for our fans. Disney Media Networks will work closely with leading partners in each market to provide new, innovative ways for audiences to engage with our stories, brands and characters, and drive continued growth across our businesses,” said Robert Gilby, Managing Director, The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia.

“As a passionate champion of Disney's content and brands, Amit will continue to drive rapid growth in digital distribution, extend partnerships with industry leaders including mobile platforms, and develop innovative business models," he added.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead this newly integrated Disney Media Networks business. With the strength of our brands, stories and characters this integrated approach directly serves consumer needs for great content, mobility, entertainment and expressing themselves,” said Mr. Malhotra.

For the last two years as General Manager of Studios, Amit was responsible for all movie marketing and distribution. Prior to this he headed Disney Media Distribution for the Asia Pacific region and brings over 20 years’ experience in the media and entertainment business across APAC.

Source: The Walt Disney Company