Amazon Studios Restructures Scripted-Development Team

Jennifer Salke, who recently took over as head of Amazon Studios, is shaking up the television division, appointing COO Albert Cheng as co-head of TV.

Cheng will retain his current COO post and will have oversight day-to-day of the business, creative and production units. A partner to jointly lead the TV team will be appointed. Both will report to Salke.

Salke said, “I’m delighted that an opportunity for Albert to be elevated within the Television Studios has been created. His business acumen, collaborative nature and clear goals toward continued success make him an invaluable team player as we move forward.”

Additionally, Sharon Tal Yguado, who had been serving as head of scripted development, will oversee genre programming, including event series in the areas of science fiction, fantasy and supernatural.

Marc Resteghini will serve as head of drama, focusing on non-genre series. Gina Kwon and Ryan Andolina will serve as co-heads of comedy. Nick Hall will be head of alternative programming, including YA, specialty series and supporting efforts to drive talent and new ventures to the service. Georgia Brown will lead U.K.-originated scripted TV, and she will retain her responsibilities for EU originals (for Germany, France, Italy and Spain). Brown will co-report to co-heads of television for U.K.-originated scripted TV and to Brad Beale for EU originals.

Melissa Wolfe continues to serve as head of kids’ programming, and Heather Schuster remains head of unscripted.