The Walt Disney Company unveils new integrated media network unit

The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia has formed an integrated media networks organisation, called Disney Media Networks. The new unit combines all of Disney’s channels, media distribution, games and apps and maker studios businesses but excludes ESPN.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.Amit Malhotra (pictured), ‎vice president and general manager of Disney Southeast Asia will lead the team reporting to Robert Gilby, who is managing director. Malhotra has worked for Disney for over 12 years.Malhotra will focus on audience engagement, building brand affinity and driving monetisation with a compelling portfolio of video content, apps and games across all media platforms. He was previously responsible for all movie marketing and distribution as general manager of the studios division, and headed Disney media distribution for the Asia Pacific region before that.“Mobile and 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,” Robert Gilby, managing director, The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia said.He added that Malhotra will continue to drive rapid growth in digital distribution, extend partnerships with industry leaders including mobile platforms, and develop innovative business models.“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,” Malhotra said.