Amazon MGM Studios has hired Buddy Marini to function its top executive in Japan, effective March 6.
Based in Tokyo, he’ll drive the slate of local originals spanning film, TV series and anime, construct out the studio’s network of creators and production partners, and work with global teams to bring Japanese stories to wider audiences. He reports to Nicole Clemens, who oversees international operations for Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video.
Marini’s profession spans greater than 25 years across entertainment, media and digital content in Japan and Asia. He involves the role from Warner Bros. Discovery Japan, where as managing director he ran the complete scope of the business – streaming, original production, pay-TV and licensing – with a 300-person team under his remit. Earlier in his profession he launched manga platform Mangamo, ran Hulu Japan as CEO, and led Avex Asia out of Hong Kong.
“Japan continues to be a key territory for Prime Video,” said Clemens. “Our customers in Japan have an insatiable appetite for locally produced series and films. Along with his deep understanding of Japanese entertainment, proven track record in streaming and content production, and robust relationships with key creative and distribution partners, Buddy is perfectly positioned to drive Amazon MGM Studios’ growth and success in Japan.”
“I’m thrilled to hitch Amazon MGM Studios at such a vital moment for storytelling and audience engagement in Japan,” Marini added. “I’ve spent my profession working alongside creators, partners, and teams across film, television, manga and anime, and streaming, and I’m captivated with helping great stories reach their fullest audience potential.”