Jon Wax is jumping from Amazon to Disney.
After serving as head of genre development at the e-commerce giant/streamer, Wax has joined Disney and will serve as exec vp international original television and report to Eric Schrier, president of Disney TV Studios and global original TV strategy at the Mouse House.
In his new role, Wax will work with regional leaders and their respective teams across the globe to create local content for streamer Disney+. He will be based in Los Angeles and work alongside Kristen Finney, exec vp international TV strategy and operations at Disney Entertainment. Finney, who also reports to Schrier, will work with Wax to set a global original TV strategy. Wax will focus on creative and Finney on the business side of the international slate.
“At Disney Entertainment, our regional teams have done an incredible job building an exceptional slate of locally produced content that has fueled the growth of our streaming platforms,” said Schrier. “Jon’s vast experience and unique perspective will serve us well as we continue to elevate our global content strategy with impactful shows that resonate with customers around the world.”
In Wax’s previous role as head of genre development at Amazon, he worked on titles including Rings of Power, The Boys and Gen V. Before joining Amazon, he led drama and movies at YouTube Originals and had roles at the former WGN America. He started his career at Fox, working on titles including Bones and 24 and later worked as vp drama development at the studio that is now the Disney-owned 20th Television.
“From Moving and The Boss to the upcoming Renegade Nell, Disney has an impressive international content portfolio,” said Wax. “I’m thrilled to be joining the team and for the opportunity to work with the outstanding regional groups — supporting their efforts to make industry-leading original programming for subscribers.”
Wax’s move comes as Disney is looking to bulk up its international offerings as Disney+ continues to expand its reach across the globe in a bid to better compete with streaming juggernaut Netflix.