Key Takeaways
- Jimmy Zasowski has been promoted to president of platform distribution for Disney Entertainment and ESPN
- He will lead distribution and monetization for Disney’s streaming platforms, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN, as well as its linear TV networks, such as ABC
- Zasowski will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, and ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro
- He will be responsible for advancing the company’s distribution efforts and driving results in a rapidly evolving media landscape
- Sean Breen, executive VP of platform distribution sales, will assume an expanded role with the EMEA, LATAM, and APAC regions
Introduction to Jimmy Zasowski’s Promotion
The Walt Disney Co. has announced the promotion of Jimmy Zasowski to president of platform distribution for Disney Entertainment and ESPN. This move is a significant one, as Zasowski will now be responsible for leading the distribution and monetization efforts for Disney’s various streaming platforms, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN, as well as its linear TV networks, such as ABC. In his new role, Zasowski will report jointly to Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, and ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro. This joint reporting structure reflects the importance of Zasowski’s role in driving the company’s distribution efforts across its various business segments.
Zasowski’s Background and Qualifications
Zasowski is a seasoned executive with a deep understanding of the media industry. He first joined Disney in 2009 and has since held various roles within the company, most recently serving as executive VP of platform distribution strategy. His experience and expertise in this area make him well-suited to lead Disney’s distribution efforts, and his promotion is a testament to his skills as a strategist, dealmaker, and collaborative leader. As Bergman, Walden, and Pitaro noted in a joint statement, "Jimmy is a skilled strategist, excellent dealmaker, and a thoughtful, collaborative leader who will advance the company’s distribution efforts to the next level."
Zasowski’s New Role and Responsibilities
In his new role, Zasowski will be responsible for advancing Disney’s distribution efforts and driving results in a rapidly evolving media landscape. This will involve leading the company’s efforts to distribute its content across various platforms, including streaming services, linear TV networks, and other emerging platforms. Zasowski will also be responsible for building on the strength of Disney’s distribution team and driving partnerships with key stakeholders, including distributors, advertisers, and other industry partners. As he noted in a statement, "I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead the best distribution and content sales team in the industry. I look forward to building upon the successful partnerships that we have across the globe and further expanding access to Disney’s best-in-class content in this dynamic marketplace."
Expansion of Sean Breen’s Role
In addition to Zasowski’s promotion, Disney also announced that Sean Breen, executive VP of platform distribution sales, will assume an expanded role with the EMEA, LATAM, and APAC regions. This move reflects the company’s efforts to strengthen its global distribution efforts and drive growth in key international markets. Breen’s expanded role will involve overseeing platform distribution sales across these regions, and working closely with Zasowski and other members of the distribution team to drive results and advance Disney’s global distribution strategy.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The promotion of Jimmy Zasowski to president of platform distribution for Disney Entertainment and ESPN is a significant move that reflects the company’s efforts to drive growth and innovation in the media industry. With his deep understanding of the industry and his experience in distribution and monetization, Zasowski is well-positioned to lead Disney’s distribution efforts and drive results in a rapidly evolving media landscape. As the media industry continues to shift and change, Disney’s ability to adapt and innovate will be critical to its success, and Zasowski’s leadership will play a key role in driving this effort. With a strong team in place, including Sean Breen and other experienced executives, Disney is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern media landscape and continue to deliver high-quality content to audiences around the world.
