Disney Worldwide has promoted Joe D'Ambrosia to the position general manager for Disney Junior (DStv 309) in the United States and he will now oversee all extensions of the Disney Junior experience, on- and off-screen.
In his new role, Joe D'Ambrosia will continue to be responsible for all development and production of Disney's original programming content for kids between the ages of 2 and 7, as well as acquisitions for the preschooler demographic.
Joe D'Ambrosia will continue to report to Nancy Kanter, executive vice president, content and creative strategy at Disney Channels Worldwide. Joe D'Ambrosia joined Disney in 2011.
Besides Joe D'Ambrosia's promotion, Disney has reorganized key roles on its animated content development team for Disney Channel, Disney Junior and the upcoming Disney+ platform streaming platform it plans to launch in late-2019.
Emily Hart, vice president of original programming, will now lead development on Disney animated content for kids 6 to 11; and Alyssa Sapire, vice president of original programming will spearhead Disney animated content for kids 2 to 5.
Shane Prigmore, vice president of creative and artistic development will lead creative development across animated programming for both kids' age groups. Vicki Ariyasu has been appointed vice president of the educational resource group, and diversity and inclusion for Disney Channels.
"It's more important than ever that the people we have leading our creative and strategic content development are the best in the business and that they are empowered to seek out the most exciting talent and innovative storytelling," says Nancy Kanter in a statement.
"Joe has been integral in growing the Disney Junior brand and establishing our position as the number one preschool network."
"His impeccable instincts for story and character along with a genuine interest in impacting the lives of young children make him the perfect person for me to hand over the reins and lead us into the next stage for Disney Junior."
"With these leaders and their teams in place, I am excited to move into the next phase of our business and content development."
