MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Entertainment CEO and chairman Michael Lynton and co-chairman Amy Pascal announced that Peter Schlessel has been appointed president, worldwide affairs at Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Schlessel, who has been serving as president of the Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group since 2006, will be replaced in that role, but will retain oversight of the group. In his new capacity, he will take on the additional responsibility of overseeing key corporate-wide initiatives and identifying strategic opportunities for the company. Schlessel will report directly to Lynton and Pascal.

“This promotion reflects the importance of coordinated, strategic planning across all of our lines of business, and Peter is the perfect person to partner with in this effort,” said Lynton. “He has become a key player in many aspects of our overall business, and in this new position he will be able to help Amy and me manage and grow the company in a more efficient and profitable way,” he explained.

“I have had a long relationship with Peter that I truly value, and I’m excited to work closely with him again in helping to maintain and expand Sony Pictures’ role in the entertainment community,” said Pascal.

“I’ve enjoyed my time back at SPE and am looking forward to working more closely with Michael and Amy. Sony Pictures is an incredible company and I’m excited to be more involved with the entire studio,” Schlessel said.