Netflix is replacing chief content officer Bela Bajaria with former Disney and Fox executive Peter Rice, changing the leadership of its worldwide programming operation a day after announcing major job cuts.
In an October 15 announcement, Netflix said Rice will start October 26 and oversee its global content organization, including scripted and unscripted series, films and live events. Bajaria is leaving after nearly 10 years with the company.
Co-chief executive officer Ted Sarandos credited Bajaria with expanding unscripted programming and bringing Netflix into live events and sports. Rice previously held senior television leadership roles at Disney and Fox and led Fox Searchlight Pictures.
The leadership change follows Netflix’s October 14 announcement of approximately 1,000 job cuts. The company’s announcement does not explain Bajaria’s departure or establish a connection between her exit and those reductions.
Netflix has not outlined programming, commissioning or live-sports strategy changes under Rice. His appointment alone does not establish that existing productions or rights agreements will change.