MUMBAI: George Chien has been promoted to senior vice president, international networks, Asia-Pacific, Sony Pictures Television (SPT).

He will report to Sony Pictures Television president, networks Andy Kaplan.

Based in Culver City, California, Chien will work closely with SPT executive vice president, international networks, Asia-Pacific Todd Miller in overseeing the group’s television networks business in the Asia-Pacific region.

As a result of his promotion, Chien now manages, with Miller, SPT’s interests in joint ventures in Australia: Premium Movie Partnership (Showtime Australia), a joint venture with 20th Century Fox, NBC Universal, Paramount and Liberty Media; and TV1 and TV1 SCI FI, joint ventures with NBC Universal, and CBS Studios International. Chien will also pursue business development opportunities and work with local management to expand SPT’s portfolio in the Asia-Pacific region by leveraging the company’s existing infrastructure.

"George has played an essential role in the growth of our channels business in Asia. His financial expertise and extensive knowledge of our international networks business will continue to be an asset as we expand in the region," said Kaplan.

Chien continues to provide leadership to SPT’s television networks in greater Asia including AXN Asia, AXN Japan, AXN Korea and AXN Beyond in Asia; Animax Asia, Animax Japan and Animax Korea; Sony Entertainment Television (SET) Asia and SET Beyond, as well as the PIX-branded subscription VOD services.

Chien also assists in the management of SPT’s Indian channels business, Multi Screen Media Private Limited, which operates and distributes SPT’s cable and satellite networks SET, SET MAX, SET PIX and SAB and Channel 8 Bengla. Additionally, he sits on the board of directors of Animax Japan. Most recently, Chien aided in the acquisition of the Mystery Channel in Japan, as well as in securing the broadcast rights for the Indian Premier League cricket tournament in India.