Big Changes at Sony: Peter Kang Takes the Helm at Columbia as Marketing Leaders Rise

Sony Pictures is experiencing a significant leadership shake-up. Peter Kang has been promoted to president of production at Columbia Pictures. Meanwhile, Josh Greenstein is stepping down as co-president of the Motion Picture Group, making way for these changes.

Greenstein will transition to a new role at Skydance after their upcoming $8 billion merger with Paramount Global. This shift follows Tom Rothman’s recent contract extension as chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures’ Motion Picture Group, confirming that the top position will remain unchanged for now.

Kang, who joined Sony in 2019 from Lionsgate, has a rich background in production. He’s previously contributed to renowned projects like Planet of the Apes and Gone Girl. In his new role, Kang will report to Sanford Panitch, who now serves as the sole president of the Motion Picture Group.

Panitch has been a part of Sony since 2015 and was named president of Columbia Pictures the following year. He’s well-respected, having come from a rich history at 20th Century Fox, where he founded Fox International Productions.

Greenstein’s departure creates a gap in the creative oversight once shared with Panitch. However, Danielle Misher, head of theatrical marketing, and Steven O’Dell, president of international marketing and distribution, will keep the marketing operations smooth. They will now report directly to Rothman.

The marketing team is also seeing some changes. Nicholas Weiss and Dave Fruchbom have been promoted to co-heads of Global Creative and Strategy, partnering with Misher and O’Dell.

On the production side, Andrea Giannetti, a 35-year veteran at Sony, has been elevated to executive vice president of production at Columbia Pictures. Kang and Giannetti will continue to report to Panitch.

Rothman expressed his appreciation for Greenstein, stating, “We wish him the very best. The key to a sound organization is having a strong bench.” He remains optimistic about the marketing team’s expertise and the organization’s direction.

Peter Kang’s leadership is expected to maintain Columbia Pictures’ strong reputation, with a pipeline of exciting projects on the horizon, including Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing and new films from the beloved Spider-Man and Jumanji franchises.

In a time of change, Panitch noted, “It is a promising time at Sony as we prioritize the theatrical experience.” With seasoned executives at the helm, Sony Pictures aims to continue its legacy of creating memorable films.

Recent trends in the film industry show an increasing interest in theatrical releases post-pandemic. A survey by the National Association of Theatre Owners found that nearly 70% of filmgoers prefer watching movies in theaters rather than at home. This could mean good news for Sony’s upcoming releases, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership in navigating this shift.

Sony Pictures continues to adapt and evolve, working towards its goal of delivering quality content while ensuring that the theatrical experience remains a priority.

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Paramount,Skydance,Sony Pictures,Tom Rothman