Disney has tapped Tamotsu Hiiro to be the new managing director of its Japanese operations.
Hiiro will report to Disney APAC President Luke Kang.
Tamotsu was formerly president & CEO of McDonald’s Japan. Before that, he was president of Johnson & Johnson in Japan. In his new role at Disney, Tamotsu will be tasked with driving further growth and development of the company’s entertainment businesses.
Tamotsu succeeds Carol Choi, who has stepped down after five years. Choi will retain her regional responsibilities, including her multiple roles as Executive Vice President for APAC studios, original content strategy, networks, and integrated marketing.
The company said today that during her tenure, Choi “successfully grew Disney+ to become a leading streaming service, expanded the studio business with record-breaking hits including Mufasa: The Lion King, Moana 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, and Inside Out 2, and established the company’s Japanese original content plans and team.”
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In a statement, Kang said he is “thrilled” to welcome an “accomplished leader like Hiiro-san to take the helm of our Japan business, as we continue to deepen our consumer connections in this incredibly important market.”
“I believe his deep market insight, strategic business acumen, and extensive local network will bring our Disney Entertainment business to new heights in Japan,” Kang said. “Hiiro-san will build on the solid foundation of growthspearheadedd by Carol Choi, who has made an indelible impact on our Japan business and will continue to partner with me on many strategic, key pillars of our APAC business.”
Hiiro added: “I am delighted to join such an iconic and respected global company like The Walt Disney Company, which has generations of stories and characters that millions of Japanese consumers love. As Japan grows in strategic importance as a consumer and content hub for the entertainment industry, I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the exciting momentum of the company.”
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