Disney-ABC Television Group Expands Digital-Media Team

BURBANK: As part of its plans for digital programming services growth, Disney-ABC Television Group has tapped John Solaro to oversee user experience and innovation and Roger Tsai to manage strategy and operations.

Solaro was named head of user experience and product innovation for digital media. In this role, Solaro will lead a team integrating visual, interaction and motion design, and innovation across the group’s portfolio of multiplatform products. He will play an integral role in driving a product roadmap that incorporates new nonlinear, mobile, direct-to-consumer and cloud products.

“Disney-ABC Television has been a leading innovator in digital television products,” said Solaro. “I’m looking forward to working hand-in-hand with the team as we further refine and expand how consumers experience our brands and content.”

As the VP of digital strategy, business planning and operations for digital media, Tsai will lead a team focused on identifying, developing and helping execute new digital business strategies. His team is responsible for leveraging product and performance insights, identifying opportunities, securing capabilities and building strategies. In addition, his team focuses on opportunities for driving audience acquisition, engagement, retention and advocacy.

“I’m joining a great team that has never hesitated to pursue new platforms,” remarked Tsai. “I am looking forward to working with them to identify new and bold ways to reach our viewers and grow our programming service offerings.”

Both Solaro and Tsai will report into John Frelinghuysen, the executive VP of digital media, strategy and business development at Disney-ABC Television. Frelinghuysen commented: “John and Roger bring tremendous business and technology expertise, deep understanding of the digital landscape and exceptional skills that will enable us to take our multiplatform businesses to the next level. John is a proven leader and innovator whose products have won numerous design and product awards for leading-edge video gaming and video content experiences. We are looking forward to seeing his creative sensibility and extensive user experience knowledge help drive our next wave of innovations. Roger’s strategic skills finding new and exciting ways to connect people with their favorite entertainment experiences will help us best capitalize and grow Disney-ABC’s expansive product offerings.”