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Shake-up at Warner Media with new appointments and resignations
30 Sep
WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, Distribution and Advertising Sales, EMEA and APAC president Giorgio Stock announced several new appointments and resignations recently.
The most important of which is that Ricky Ow has been appointed president for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, Distribution and Advertising Sales, APAC, and will report to Stock.
“Ricky has done a tremendous job in building a team that has transformed our business in Asia, investing in award-winning premium content, developing completely new revenue streams and optimising operations. I’m confident that he and his extended team will deliver even more to our partners and invest further in what we offer our fans,” said Stock.
Ricky Ow
Ow, previously president of Turner Asia Pacific, now takes on responsibility for all entertainment networks, distribution of all networks, advertising sales and kids network operations in APAC. This change unites Turner Asia Pacific and HBO Asia to create a combined powerhouse of brands that will span 42 countries in 14 languages.
Additionally, Clement Schwebig has been promoted to managing director for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, Southeast Asia, Pacific and China, effective immediately. Based out of Singapore, he will continue to report to Ow.
“Clement is a seasoned business leader who has substantial experience encompassing all aspects of business operations in TV broadcasting and production, strategy, finance and sales,” said Ow.
“With his deep understanding of our business in Asia Pacific, Clement is ideally suited to lead our networks and commercial operations in Southeast Asia Pacific and China, playing an even more active role in shaping the direction and strategy as we transform into a modern media company,” he added.
In his new role, Schwebig will oversee all entertainment networks including HBO and its family of channels, OTT service and two SVOD services, Warner TV, local content channels Red and Oh!K, as well as Cartoon Network and the kids portfolio, and all digital ventures.
His responsibilities include operations, advertising sales, and the distribution of all networks including CNN International, HLN and BabyFirst.
“I’m grateful for the confidence Giorgio and Ricky have placed in me. Combining the strengths of all our teams behind powerful brands like HBO, CNN and Cartoon Network positions us for a sustainable growth of our business as we evolve rapidly in order to engage our consumers across multiple touchpoints, with standout content, leveraging data and technology.
“I have a deep respect for the success HBO Asia has achieved and will build upon the legacy established by Jonathan and his executive team. I am particularly looking forward to working with the Turner and HBO teams in Singapore, which are known in the industry for their creativity and innovative mindset,” said Schwebig.
Previously, Schwebig was CFO of Turner Asia Pacific, SVP Business Development and Licensing for the region, as well as managing director of China.
Both Jonathan Spink, CEO, HBO Asia and Steve Burton, executive vice president, HBO Asia both leaving the company.
On Sprink, Stock said, “I want to thank Jonathan, who over his long tenure has led the Asian team with passion, entrepreneurship, and a focus on innovation, applying throughout his good humour and a healthy dose of common sense. I am looking forward to having his precious advice and his insights through the end of this year as we bring our companies together and prepare for a new chapter.”
“It has been a truly exceptional experience leading HBO Asia over these past years,” said Spink. “It has been a wonderful journey and I wish the company every success for the future.”
Stock also commented Burton’s leaving:
“Steve’s many contributions to the HBO Asia business have been integral to the business success over the years, with his drive and commitment,” said Stock. “He leaves us well-equipped to take advantage of future opportunities.”
Financial chief for the region Jamie Friend (currently SVP and CFO for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, EMEA) has also been promoted to take on the responsibility of helming the company’s financial planning and analysis for APAC as well. Jamie reports into Trey Turner, EVP and CFO, WarnerMedia Sales & International;
“Jamie’s business acumen, innovative thinking and strategic vision is a powerful combination which has already been invaluable to our existing EMEA operation,” said Stock. “Now he will bring those skills to the Asian region to shape and support how we evolve the business in today’s fast-changing media landscape.”
To support the new organisation in APAC, legal is also getting a boost with regional legal counsels Annabel Archer and Lawrence Yuen who report into Alessandra Chichi, chief legal counsel for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, Distribution and Advertising Sales EMEA and APAC region. Alessandra reports into Melissa Roper Barnett, EVP and general counsel, WarnerMedia Sales & International.
