MUMBAI: In response to the growing demands of its distribution, networks and local language production businesses, Sony Pictures Television International (SPTI) has announced two senior level promotions to help lead its continued global expansion.
Andy Kaplan has been promoted to president, International Networks, and John McMahon has been promoted to president and MD, Europe. The announcement was made by SPTI president Michael Grindon to whom both report, states an official release.
SPTI is the division of Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) responsible for all television businesses outside of the United States and is the leading major Hollywood studio in local language production.
"Sony Pictures Television International is an extremely profitable part of Sony Pictures Entertainment and these promotions are in recognition of the extraordinary accomplishments of these two individuals," Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman Michael Lynton.
"Under Andy Kaplan, our International Networks Group has successfully launched new channels in Asia, Europe and Latin America," said Grindon. "His smart, strategic decisions have led to not only new channel launches, but also to expanding distribution, increased ratings and steadily growing advertising revenues."
"John McMahon has expertly managed our growing television businesses in Europe, our most important international region," Grindon continued. "He has assembled a talented executive team that continues to deliver steady growth across all of our businesses. John's leadership skills and ability to coordinate and support complex operations across numerous territories is a terrific asset for Sony Pictures Television International."
Based at SPTI's headquarters in Culver City, California, Kaplan is responsible for all cable and satellite television networks and investments, which now number more than 40 channels throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America. In close coordination with SPTI's regional managing directors for Asia, Australia, Europe and Latin America, as well as senior management of Sony Pictures Entertainment Japan, Kaplan oversees AXN, Sony Entertainment Television (SET) branded networks, and Animax, the first 24-hour network dedicated to popular Japanese anime. Kaplan also manages SPTI's relationships with all international partner channel ventures, such as HBO in Asia, Central Europe and Latin America; and Showtime and Encore in Australia.
