Kevin Tsujihara has a new top man in Japan. Masami Takahashi has been named President of Warner Bros Japan, effective September 1.
Takahashi will have general oversight of Warner Bros’ businesses in the country, including theatrical distribution, television distribution, home entertainment, consumer products, games, and local production. He will work closely with in-place executives in each of these divisions as well as divisional management to fully optimize every opportunity to grow Warner Bros.’ operations in Japan. Takahashi will also work closely with Warner Bros. veteran Millard Ochs, who, after serving as President of Warner Bros Japan for the past 21 months, will segue into an advisory role with the company.
“Japan is a vital territory for Warner Bros, and Masami is a great choice to help us continue our history of growth and success there,” Tsujihara said. “He’s well-connected, well-respected and has a track record of creativity and innovation that will take our Japanese operations to the next level.” The Warner Bros chairman and CEO added: “I would also like to thank Millard for his great leadership and guidance in implementing our ‘one company’ philosophy and creating a collaborative synergistic working spirit across Warner Bros Japan. The results have been tangible and valuable.”
Takahashi most recently served as VP Group Marketing, a role he assumed upon joining Warner Bros. in August 2015. Prior to Warner Bros., Takahashi spent 11 years at Disney, most recently serving as Executive Director, Head of Japan Studio Marketing. Before Disney, Takahashi was VP and General Manager of the Console Division of Electronic Arts KK in Japan.
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