WarnerMedia names Goncalves to head up streaming service

Otter Media CEO Tony Goncalves is to lead the development of WarnerMedia’s new streaming service, along with Otter Media’s existing brands. He will report into Bob Greenblatt, chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and direct-to-consumer.

Greenblatt meanwhile is to take charge of Otter Media, which groups together a number of WarnerMedia digital offerings, as the company continues the restructure of its TV business.

COO Andy Forssell will move to the role of EVP and general manager of the new streaming service, reporting to Goncalves. Forssell previously served as the CEO of Hulu, with his expertise in direct-to-consumer services likely coming into play in this decision.

Kevin Reilly, president of TBS/TNT/TruTV and chief content officer of direct-to-consumer, will remain in that position, now reporting to Greenblatt.

The final change comes in the form of a departure of Brad Bentley, who was serving as the streaming service’s general manager.

“As we continue to build out our new streaming business and realign WarnerMedia functions, this step will facilitate further scale and focus in our efforts to offer customers an engaging and compelling product experience,” said John Stankey, CEO, WarnerMedia. “I’m confident that with Tony and Andy leading our product and operations, Kevin and HBO’s Casey Bloys guiding our content strategy, and with Bob at the helm, we have a formidable team creating a curated streaming service with a winning combination of content and features. I also want to thank Brad for his leadership in bringing the project to this point in record time.”

Greenblatt added: “The thriving Otter Media businesses are important to this company and I’m happy to welcome Tony and Andy to our direct-to-consumer team.

“This group’s expertise will be invaluable to our new streaming service as we aim to bring content from the best storytellers in the world to an audience that expects the highest quality digital experience.”