Sony Pictures Television rejigs distribution ranks as Mike Wald retires

Mike Wald

Sony Pictures Television (SPT) is reshuffling its distribution leadership as Mike Wald retires after more than 30 years with the US-based studio group.

Wald, who had served as co-president of distribution and networks alongside Jason Spivak, will retire at the end of the year.

With his departure, Spivak will now share the title of president of distribution and networks alongside Paul Littmann, who is being promoted from exec VP of global distribution, SPT. They will work closely alongside SPT chairman Keith Le Goy, who made the announcement in an internal memo on Thursday.

In addition, Mark Young has been named executive VP, head of international, taking on oversight of Latin America and Asia Pacific in addition to his existing EMEA remit.

News of Wald’s retirement comes two weeks after SPT’s exec VP of distribution for North America, Flory Bramnick, stepped away from the role to spend more time with family. With Bramnick’s exit, Monica Veiga was promoted to exec VP of TV distribution, North America.

During his tenure, Wald has played a key role in the growth of SPT’s global licensing business, holding leadership roles across the US, Asia and Europe and helped guide the business through various market shifts.

“While we are very sad to see them go, I am incredibly optimistic about what lies ahead for our Distribution & Networks business,” wrote Le Goy in his note.

He added: “We are exceptionally well positioned for continued success. We have extraordinary content, deep relationships across the marketplace and, most importantly, a remarkable team that knows how to turn those strengths into growth. Our business moves fast; we will move faster.”