DreamWorks Animation hires ex-Disney executive Mark Zoradi as COO

DreamWorks Animation has promoted Ann Daly to company president and tapped former Disney executive Mark Zoradi as the studio’s chief operating officer.

The Glendale company behind the “Shrek,” “Kung Fu Panda” and “Madagascar” movies said the management changes were intended to help DreamWorks grow as an increasingly diversified family entertainment business.

The studio has been expanding its entry into television, consumer products other areas to lessen its dependence on producing animated feature films. After an uneven stretch at the box office, DreamWorks has vowed to be more selective about its choice of films and expand its business beyond the big screen.

DreamWorks also has been adding to its executive ranks. The company last year hired former Target and J.C. Penney executive Michael Francis to the newly created position of chief global brand officer.

The company also tapped former Nickelodeon executive Marjorie Cohn as its first head of television.

“As DreamWorks grows, we are focusing on creating a strong management structure that has the expertise and capacity to best serve the changing needs of our company,” said DreamWorks Chief Executive Jeffrey Katzenberg in a statement. “Ann and I are thrilled to welcome Mark to the DreamWorks family, and to recognize the current team for their tremendous contributions to the company.”

Zoradi is a 30-year veteran of the motion picture industry. He was instrumental in the start up of Walt Disney Home Entertainment and Disney Channel. He previously served as the general manager of Buena Vista Television, was president of Buena Vista International and served as president of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Group.

“I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the talented DreamWorks team at a time of remarkable expansion and growth for the company,” Zoradi said in the statement. “DreamWorks’ family of beloved characters and stories are known around the world and I look forward to helping to build and expand their reach with new businesses and venues.”

As part of the management changes, Lew Coleman, the company’s current president, will assume the role of vice-chairman. He will also remain chief financial officer and acting chief accounting officer.

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