Disney's Latin America head takes control of EMEA business

by Dan Leahul, Brand Republic 05-Mar-09, 09:30

LONDON - The Walt Disney Company is streamlining its international business by expanding the role of its current president of Latin America operations, Diego Lerner, to also head the business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Lerner will integrate all of Disney's business in EMEA, excluding Disneyland Paris and the ESPN sports network, working from Disney's offices in London.

Walt Disney's Latin America business underwent a similar integration under Lerner, who introduced a number of initiatives, including Disney pay-tv, the Disney Channel and Disney Radio in Spanish and children's websites Playhouse Disney and Jetix.

Lerner will remain president of Disney's Latin America operations, however day-to-day responsibilities will fall under chief operating and chief financial officer Claudio Chiaromonte.

Lerner joined in the company in 1990 as an executive director. In his new role, which begins immediately, he will report directly to international chairman Andy Bird.

Bird said: "Expansion in international markets is a key strategic priority for Disney, and Diego's proven ability to nurture and grow Disney's businesses makes him an ideal choice for this new position as we accelerate our efforts across Europe, the Middle East and Africa."