Schlessel Named President, Worldwide Affairs at SPE

CULVER CITY, January 24: Peter Schlessel has been promoted
to president of worldwide affairs at Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) after
serving as president of the Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group since
2006.

In his new role, Schlessel will oversee key corporate-wide
initiatives and identify strategic opportunities for the company. He will be
replaced in his former role, but will retain oversight of the group. Schlessel
will report to Michael
Lynton, SPE’s CEO and chairman, and Amy Pascal, the company’s co-chairman.

Schlessel joined the business and legal affairs group of
RCA/Columbia Pictures Home Video in 1989 and has since held several key senior
positions at Sony Pictures. He was named senior VP of acquisitions and business
affairs in 1994 and played a pivotal role in the formation of Screen Gems in
1996. He became president of production of Columbia Pictures in 2000 and
eventually served as president of Columbia Pictures.

“This promotion reflects the importance of coordinated,
strategic planning across all of our lines of business, and Peter is the
perfect person to partner with in this effort,” said Lynton. “He has become a
key player in many aspects of our overall business, and in this new position he
will be able to help Amy and me manage and grow the company in a more efficient
and profitable way.”

“I have had a long relationship with Peter that I truly
value, and I’m excited to work closely with him again in helping to maintain
and expand Sony Pictures’ role in the entertainment community,” said Pascal.
“His invaluable range of business and creative experiences and his personal
skills will be an asset throughout the company.”

Schlessel commented: “I’ve enjoyed my time back at SPE and
am looking forward to working more closely with Michael and Amy. Sony Pictures
is an incredible company and I’m excited to be more involved with the entire
studio.”

—By Ned Berke