Promotions and exits in Discovery Asia shake-up

The Asian arm of channel operator Discovery has appointed its first region-wide general manager, is setting up new teams in several countries and is looking for a country manager for Korea as part of a regional reorganisation.

Two longstanding DNI Asia execs, Kevin Dickie and Charles Yap, have also left in the DNI Asia rejig.

The company has upped Theresa Ong to the newly-created position of general manager, South East Asia. Reporting to Rahul Johri, EVP of South Asia and South East Asia, she will establish new local teams in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

The company is also looking for a country manager for South Korea as local regulation makes it easier for international channels to operate in the country.

Meanwhile, Kevin Dickie has exited the company amid the changes. He had been at Discovery since 2000, most recently as senior VP, of the Asian content group. Charles Yap, vice president, communications, at Discovery Asia is also out in the restructure.

Arjan Hoekstra, President of DNAP, said: “Theresa Ong is an outstanding media executive and will undoubtedly bring valuable experience as we establish new local hubs and deepen our expertise and relationships across South East Asia. I am also excited to identify a new leader in Korea and investing in this important market.”

Discovery, which announced the Asian restructure locally last week, runs nine channel brands across 51 feeds and 37 countries in Asia.