Kevin Tsujihara Named Warner Bros. CEO

NEW YORK: Kevin Tsujihara has been tapped to succeed Barry Meyer as the CEO of Warner Bros. Entertainment, effective March 1, following seven years at the helm of the studio’s home-entertainment division.

Tsujihara has been the president of the Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group since 2005, responsible for home video, digital distribution, video games, anti-piracy efforts and emerging technologies. He becomes CEO of the studio March 1, while Meyer will remain as chairman through 2013.

Tsujihara has been part of the Office of the President, together with Bruce Rosenblum, the president of Warner Bros. Television, and Jeff Robinov, the president of Warner Bros. Pictures, since 2010. It was formed to position the company for Meyer’s planned exit this year.

“Kevin is one of the most effective and respected executives within Time Warner, and the right leader to ensure Warner Bros.’ preeminence into the future," said Jeff Bewkes, the chairman and CEO of Time Warner. "He brings the perfect combination of strategic thinking, financial discipline, digital vision, and management style to build on Warner Bros.’ track record of success under Barry Meyer.”

Meyer added, “In working with Kevin for nearly 20 years, I’ve come to know and value a talented executive with a passion for this company and its people. He has skillfully guided one of the most complex businesses at Warner Bros. during a time of transition in the home entertainment sector, and has a deep appreciation and respect for the films and TV shows we create. Kevin has a rare combination of extraordinary business acumen and a love for the art of storytelling, and I’m confident he will be a great leader for Warner Bros.”

Of his appointment, Tsujihara said, “It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead this storied business. We’re at a pivotal moment in the histories of Hollywood and entertainment: technology is changing the canvas we use to create theatrical releases; home entertainment is rapidly evolving; and the definition of television now includes viewing across a wide range of devices and services. But in my mind one thing remains clear and constant: Warner Bros.’ unmatched ability to tell stories that inspire, educate, and entertain global audiences. We are extremely fortunate to have strong relationships with some of the industry’s most gifted talent and together we will continue to use those relationships, our scale, and our passion to build on Warner Bros. great legacy.”

Tsujihara has been with the studio since 1994.