MUMBAI: Industry veteran and ex-Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group president Mark Zoradi has joined Imax Corporation as non-executive strategic advisor. Based in Los Angeles, Zoradi will be available to advise on key issues in all areas of the company, including film acquisition, distribution and marketing, as well as studio and exhibitor relationships.
Zoradi is a 30-year veteran of the motion picture industry. During his nearly three decades at Disney, Zoradi worked in the television, home entertainment and film divisions and most recently served as president of the studio’s motion picture group, overseeing worldwide marketing and distribution.
Zoradi started his Disney career as marketing coordinator for Walt Disney Home Video in 1980 at ground zero of the home entertainment boom. He next became marketing director for the Disney Channel, which was also in its infancy at the time. He segued into domestic theatrical distribution as director of sales for Buena Vista Pictures Distribution in the mid-80s and also held the position of senior vice president and general manager of Buena Vista Television from 1987-1992. As was reported by Businessofcinema.com earlier this month, Zoradi has also joined the Board of Directors of newly formed Rave Cinemas, which is now the United States’ fifth largest theater exhibition chain.
"The Imax network continues to expand around the globe, and Mark’s industry insight and expertise will no doubt help us further establish ourselves as a critical distribution platform for event titles. We welcome Mark to IMAX at an exciting time for the Company and believe his enthusiasm for the organization is a real testament to the opportunities ahead," said Imax CEO Richard L. Gelfond.
Imax Filmed Entertainment chairman and president Greg Foster said, "Mark and I have worked closely together as the relationship between Imax and Disney developed and expanded. I am confident that Mark’s knowledge and experience working with a thriving global entertainment company, combined with his unique understanding and approach, will be a big asset to Imax, and I look forward to officially welcoming him to the Imax family."
"Imax is an incredible brand with a distinct and important position in the overall distribution strategy of nearly every major studio. I look forward to this exciting opportunity, and to being a member of the Imax team as the company continues to deliver The Imax Experience to more audiences around the world," Zoradi added.
