Netflix has appointed former Disney executive Peter Rice as its new Chief Content Officer, replacing Bela Bajaria, effective October 26.
The streaming company announced the appointment on Thursday, saying Rice would oversee its global content organisation, including scripted and unscripted series, films and live events.
Rice most recently oversaw Disney’s cable channels, news programming and coverage of major sporting events. Before joining Disney, he held positions at 21st Century Fox and Fox Searchlight Pictures.
Netflix Co-Chief Executive Officer Ted Sarandos described Rice as one of the entertainment industry’s most effective large-scale operators, expressing confidence in his ability to help the company expand its content offerings.
In a statement, Rice said Netflix had consistently demonstrated a willingness to take chances on distinctive voices and fresh ideas, adding that he was looking forward to working with the team to deliver more stories to audiences worldwide.
Bajaria, who is leaving Netflix after nearly 10 years, most recently led the company’s global content team. She had also been focused on its live sports strategy, which seeks to develop major games and tournaments into high-profile entertainment events.
Sarandos expressed gratitude for Bajaria’s contributions, saying she had helped Netflix entertain audiences around the world.
The leadership change comes a day after Netflix announced workforce reductions affecting approximately six per cent of its employees, or about 1,000 jobs.
The company’s shares have fallen by more than 20 per cent this year, although the stock remained relatively unchanged in extended trading on Thursday.
Netflix is scheduled to report its next quarterly earnings on Tuesday.
Boluwatife Enome
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