Peter Levinsohn was named president and chief distribution officer of Universal Pictures on Wednesday, the studio announced.
Levinsohn will be charged with overseeing worldwide home entertainment, new media and digital strategy, technology, and international and domestic television distribution. Levinsohn will work alongside Universal Pictures chairman Adam Fogelson, co-chairman Donna Langely and president Jimmy Horowitz on all aspects of the studio's business.
Additionally, Levinsohn will be splitting biz development and strategic planning duties with Horowitz. Nikki Rocco will continue to head the company's North American theatrical distribution operations. Both executives will report to Fogelson.
"Peter is one of the foremost leaders in the space where technology meets entertainment,” said Fogelson in a statement to TheWrap. "He is a seasoned strategic manager whose portfolio perfectly augments our leadership team. At this pivotal time in our business, Peter will be a real asset to Universal in meeting the challenges and harnessing the opportunities of an ever evolving business."
Levinsohn is currently president of new media and digital distribution for Fox Filmed Entertainment. He's spent most of his career at Fox in various key positions, including president of Fox Interactive Media and president of worldwide pay television and video-on-demand for Twentieth Century Fox. Notably, Levinsohn is credited with spearheading some of the company’s most significant digital partnerships such as HBO, Netflix, Amazon, iTunes, Xbox and others.
