Disney-ABC Cable Networks Group Ups Vince Roberts to EVP, Tech & Ops

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgVince Roberts has been promoted to the newly created position of evp, worldwide technology and operations, Disney-ABC Cable Networks Group and Walt Disney Television International. He will be responsible for the global technical and operational strategic direction and ongoing management of all television and IT functions across the Disney-ABC Cable Networks Group, including Disney Channel, Toon Disney, SOAPnet, ABC Family and JETIX; and Walt Disney Television International, including, Disney-branded networks in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, Japan and Canada. In addition, he will be responsible for all shared service support for Buena Vista Television Syndication and Buena Vista International Television.

"For the past 16 years, Vince has utilized his unmatched knowledge and expertise in the area of advanced broadcast technology and operations to help our cable networks become industry leaders," said Anne Sweeney, co-chairman Media Networks, The Walt Disney Co. and president, Disney-ABC Television Group, to whom Roberts will continue to report. "In his new role, Vince will be critical to the future success of the Disney-ABC Cable Networks Group and Walt Disney Television International, as we become more aggressive than ever in our use of existing and emerging technologies. There is no one better suited for this new position."

A founding employee of Disney Channel, Roberts joined the network in 1983 as a staff engineer, and then went on to serve as director of operations and engineering. In 1989, after a two-year stint as svp of Color Systems Inc., he rejoined Disney Channel as vp, engineering and operations to develop one of America’s first video file server-based broadcast operations. Roberts was also responsible for establishing Disney’s first international broadcast operation – Walt Disney Television Singapore – launching Disney Channel Taiwan in March of 1995. He also played a key role in developing Disney Channel’s first technical facilities operation in the U.K. Most recently he served as svp, technology and operations, Disney-ABC Cable Networks Group.

Roberts serves on several internal organizations, including The Walt Disney Co.’s Media Technology Board, focusing on innovation and technology development, and plays a key role in developing Disney’s future satellite distribution strategies.