DISNEY’S ASIA PACIFIC PRESIDENT UDAY SHANKAR TO STEP DOWN

Disney’s Asia Pacific President Uday Shankar announced his decision to step down from his position, 18 months after assuming the role. The change is effective as of 31st December, 2020. “His vast experience and expertise have been invaluable in bringing together a strong, cohesive APAC leadership team to chart a path forward for our streaming businesses in the region and beyond,” Disney’s Direct-to-consumer and International Chief Rebecca Campbell, said.

Shankar's motive for the departure has said to be his pursuit of  an entrepreneurial career. Over the next three months, he will work with Campbell, who replaced TikTok-bound Kevin Mayer earlier this year, to find his replacement.  During his time with the company, Shankar oversaw the rebrand of streamer Hotstar, now known as Disney+ Hotstar and one of the major players in the region’s highly competitive OTT market. Before joining Fox, the exec served as CEO at Star India Prior to that, he worked at India’s TV Today Group.

Disney credited Shankar with transforming the Star business into “one of the largest and most successful media companies in Asia.” The Mouse House also praised the exec for playing “a significant role in revolutionizing the media landscape of the region with a great team, audacious strategy, and meticulous execution.”

Shankar stated he would be stepping down to “give back” to his country and assist new entrepreneurs. “I think the best way to express my gratitude to all of them will be to support and mentor a new generation of entrepreneurs as they set out to create transformational solutions that will have a positive impact on countless lives," he said. "I intend to partner with global investors and pioneers to achieve this.”