Ricky Ow to Lead WarnerMedia AsiaPac Business

Ricky Ow has been tapped as president of WarnerMedia’s entertainment networks, distribution and advertising sales across the Asia Pacific, with HBO Asia’s longtime chief, Jonathan Spink, exiting the company.

The restructure unites the Turner Asia Pacific and HBO Asia units under Ow’s leadership. Ow reports into Giorgio Stock, president of WarnerMedia entertainment networks, distribution and advertising sales for EMEA and APAC. The former Turner Asia Pacific head will oversee a portfolio that includes Warner TV, Oh!K, Mondo TV, Mondo Mah-Jong TV, TABI Channel, Tabi Tele, Cartoon Network, Boomerang, POGO and Tuzki together with HBO, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO Hits, Cinemax, Red, HBO Go and two SVOD services, HBO On Demand and Ding Ji Ju Chang. His division is also responsible for the distribution of CNN International, HLN and BabyFirst in Asia.

“Ricky has done a tremendous job in building a team that has transformed our business in Asia, investing in award-winning premium content, developing completely new revenue streams and optimizing operations,” Stock said. “I’m confident that he and his extended team will deliver even more to our partners and invest further in what we offer our fans.”

Stock added, “I want to thank Jonathan, who over his long tenure has led the Asian team with passion, entrepreneurship, and a focus on innovation, applying throughout his good humor and a healthy dose of common sense. I am looking forward to having his precious advice and his insights through the end of this year as we bring our companies together and prepare for a new chapter.”

“It has been a truly exceptional experience leading HBO Asia over these past years,” said Spink. “It has been a wonderful journey and I wish the company every success for the future.”

As part of the restructure, Clement Schwebig has been promoted to managing director of WarnerMedia entertainment networks, Southeast Asia, Pacific and China, effective immediately. Schwebig will be based in Singapore and continue to report to Ow. He will oversee all entertainment networks, including HBO and its family of channels, OTT service and two SVOD services, Warner TV, local content channels Red and Oh!K, as well as Cartoon Network and the kids’ portfolio, and all digital ventures.

“Clement is a seasoned business leader who has substantial experience encompassing all aspects of business operations in TV broadcasting and production, strategy, finance and sales,” said Ow. “With his deep understanding of our business in Asia Pacific, Clement is ideally suited to lead our networks and commercial operations in Southeast Asia Pacific and China, playing an even more active role in shaping the direction and strategy as we transform into a modern media company.”