Siddharth Roy-Kapur quits Disney, Samat to returns as MD & CEO

Walt Disney Company India today said its MD and CEO Siddharth Roy-Kapur has stepped down and its former head Mahesh Samat will take over the role.
Samat, who had left the company four years back to establish Epic Television Networks, will assume the role of Managing Director of The Walt Disney Company India from November 28, the company said in a statement.
"He will resume management of all Disney businesses in India (except ESPN), with all local business segments reporting to him," Walt Disney International said.
Samat will be based in Mumbai and report directly to Walt Disney International Chairman Andy Bird.

It further said Roy-Kapur is departing the company to explore his own business interests.
Commenting on the change, Bird said: "Mahesh guided Disney in India in its early days, and we are thrilled with his decision to return to the organisation he helped build."

He further said: "We are encouraged by the opportunity we see to further grow our business in India and believe Mahesh's entrepreneurial spirit, knowledge of our brands and franchises, and long-standing expertise in our broader operations will continue the momentum we are experiencing in this dynamic market".
Samat had left Disney India four years ago to establish Epic Television Networks and was Founder and Managing Director of The Epic Channel, a popular Hindi entertainment channel (HD) focused on history, folklore and mythology-based content.

Samat will have responsibility for setting and driving The Walt Disney Company's strategy, coordinating all business efforts in India including overseeing Disney global franchises in the market, expanding existing businesses, and creating new business opportunities, the company said.
Samat has over 25 years of experience in FMCG and Healthcare across India, Asia-Pacific and Europe.