Sony lifts Schessel to president of worldwide affairs

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 1/23/2008

Schlessel has been president of the Sony Acquisitions Group since 2006 and will retain oversight of the group though the studio will name a new group president. Schlessel also will take on new responsibilities such as identifying new corporate-wide strategic opportunities. He will report to Sony CEO and chairman Michael Lynton and co-chairman Amy 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.”

Schlessel first joined the Sony corporate family in 1989, rising through several posts including serving as president of Columbia Pictures. More recently, he also served as an independent consultant to such companies as Mandate Pictures, DreamWorks SKG and Participant Productions.

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

Pascal added, “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.”