Universal Studio Group hires Focus Features exec to lead strategy team

Paul Getto

Universal Studio Group (USG) has appointed Focus Features exec Paul Getto as EVP of strategy and business development.

In this role, he will manage a team responsible for strategic initiatives, business development opportunities and investment planning across Universal Television (UTV), UCP, Universal Television Alternative Studio and, in partnership with the UK-based management team, Universal International Studios (UIS), including NBCUniversal Formats.

Getto will report to Bradley Melnick, chief financial officer, USG. His team will provide business recommendations for studio leadership based on emerging industry trends, expansion opportunities, strategic investments and internal improvements.

He joins USG from Focus Features, where he was EVP of business operations. Before that, he rose from analyst to VP of film strategy and operations at Universal Filmed Entertainment Group.

Getto was previously the director of development and production at Participant. He started at Focus Features in 2003 as a manager of creative affairs and was elevated to director of development.

“Paul’s industry expertise and business acumen have solidified his stellar reputation for delivering lofty strategic objectives,” said Melnick.