by Fathima Beckmann
Raffaele Annecchino, a
transformative figure in the global media industry and former president
and CEO of Paramount International, has passed away suddenly at the age
of 55.
Over more than 25 years
at Paramount/ViacomCBS, Annecchino rose from an early commercial role in
Madrid to oversee the company's international operations across Europe,
the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia.
As
CEO of Paramount International, he played a central role in the
company's transition from traditional broadcasting to digital platforms,
driving the international rollout of Paramount+, supporting the
expansion of Pluto TV and helping create SkyShowtime, the joint venture
between Paramount and Comcast.
Africa
was an important part of Annecchino's leadership. He championed
Viacom's African business and brands, including MTV, MTV Base, BET,
Nickelodeon and Comedy Central, and was a strong advocate for local
audiences, talent and the growth of the continent's media industry.
He
also worked closely with MultiChoice as a key strategic partner.
After
leaving Paramount, Annecchino founded Blue Ocean Media Partners, a
global consultancy focused on innovation, transformation and strategic
growth.
TRIBUTES FROM AFRICA
Alex Okosi, former EVP, BET International and Paramount Africa
"Raffaele
was a deeply valued colleague and a dear friend."
"Having worked
alongside him through years of international growth and transformation, I
saw firsthand his rare ability to combine sharp commercial instinct and
strategic vision with genuine warmth, humanity and optimism."
"He built
lasting trust, inspired those around him to think bigger and always made
time to uplift people. His impact on the global media industry is
undeniable, but for those fortunate enough to have known and worked with
him, his warmth, generosity and spirit will be just as enduring."
"He
will be deeply missed. We continue his legacy."
Fathima Beckmann, former SVP, Global Inclusion, Paramount International
"Raffaele
had a profound impact on my career and on me personally. He saw
potential in people and championed their growth."
"Through the support and
belief of both Raffaele and Marva Smalls, I had the opportunity to
serve on his executive team and relocate from South Africa to Madrid."
"It
was an honour to work alongside him at Paramount and later again as he
built and globally launched Blue Ocean Media Partners."
"Raffaele was an
extraordinary leader, visionary and ambitious, yet deeply human,
generous with his encouragement and always willing to share his wisdom.
May his soul rest in eternal peace."
Monde Twala, former SVP, BET International and Paramount Africa
"Shocking
and heartbreaking news. Raffa was an amazing leader and mentor to me
and many of us in Africa."
"He was always supportive and helpful in
elevating the business and particularly African culture and youth
entertainment. He touched and changed many lives around the world."
"I'm
forever grateful for his leadership and dedication. He encouraged
excellence and accountability in me personally. Rest easy Raffa.
Siyabonga."
Craig Paterson, former SVP, Paramount Africa
"Raffaele
was one of those rare people who lit up every room. His energy, warmth
and belief in people inspired us all. He was always in our corner,
championing Africa’s growth, and his presence will be deeply missed."
Bada Akintunde-Johnson, former country manager, Paramount Africa, Nigeria
"As country manager leading the ViacomCBS/Paramount business in Nigeria, I
experienced first-hand the impact of Raffaele's leadership."
"He guided
the EMEA business through an extraordinarily difficult period,
particularly during Covid, with exemplary leadership, empathy and
humanity."
"What I will
especially remember was his genuine interest in Africa and the way he
made those of us in the region's executive leadership feel that our
business, our people and our contributions truly mattered within the
broader organisation."
"My
deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in
perfect peace, and may the impact of his leadership and the many lives
he touched remain an enduring legacy."
Solafunmi Oyeneye, former senior channels manager, MTV Base, Nigeria
"Raffaele
was one of those leaders whose presence was genuinely felt. He had a
deep love for Africa and carried that with him."
"Whenever he came to
Africa, there was always such warmth around him, and he was someone so
many of us admired and were genuinely very fond of."
"It
is incredibly sad to hear that he is gone. To his family, I hope you
know that Raffaele touched lives far beyond those who worked closely
with him."
"Even those of us several layers removed from him remember him
with enormous warmth and affection. He was deeply respected, genuinely
loved, and will be very fondly remembered."
"May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace."
(Published as received)
