Disney’s $71.3 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox was one of the major power moves in Hollywood in recent times. The multimedia giant has now set forth a plan of restructuring, particularly for Asia. The change will be led by Uday Shankar, president of Star and Disney India and Disney’s Asia-Pacific president.
The Hollywood Reporter magazine’s website stated that Uday Shankar will be joined by Star India CEO Sanjay Gupta, who will be Disney’s country manager for India and in charge of the Indian studio business. Star India regional media networks head K Madhavan will be in charge of the studio’s regional channels.
Zubin Gandevia, Fox Studios group head for the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East, is expected to remain in place for a while at least to help with the transition of leadership.
Jessica Poleur, Disney’s vice-president for strategy and business development, is also expected to take on the leadership for strategy for Southeast Asia for the Fox Studios branch.
The report quoted a memo from Uday Shankar as stating, “Our true strength comes from the quality and diversity of our talent, which combines the best of both Disney and 21st Century Fox. I am privileged to lead a team of such exceptional leaders and congratulate all of them on getting this exciting opportunity to lead this great company to an even greater destiny.”