Mumbai: In a move that consolidates Sony Pictures’ worldwide theatrical distribution activities under one roof, the company has named Mark Zucker as president of Sony Pictures Releasing International, whereas Rory Bruer has been promoted to president of worldwide distribution.

The announcement was made by Sony Pictures Worldwide marketing & distribution chairman Jeff Blake.

The moves finalizes Blake’s long-term goal to integrate the studio’s marketing and distribution divisions on a global basis. Last year, Blake completed the merger of the studio’s worldwide marketing operations.

The promotions recognize the key contributions of Bruer, who has served as president of Sony Pictures Releasing since 2002, and Zucker, who has served as president of distribution for SPRI since 2006. As part of the streamlined consolidation of the division, Zucker will oversee SPRI reporting to Bruer and Bruer will continue to report to Blake.

"Sony was among the first studios to globalize its marketing division and I have long believed that by taking the next step and unifying our distribution operation under one roof worldwide, we could be even more efficient and productive," said Blake. "Our sales executives are the best in the industry. Bruer and Zucker have earned the trust and respect of filmmakers and exhibitors all over the world and they have helped build Sony Pictures into a first class distribution operation. We couldn’t be in better hands as we launch our highly anticipated 2009 slate."