Amazon MGM Studios has made a significant hiring move by bringing Buddy Marini on board as its top executive in Japan, starting from March 6. Marini, who is based in Tokyo, will be responsible for overseeing the development of local originals including film, TV series, and anime. In addition, he will be tasked with expanding the studio’s network of creators and production partners, as well as collaborating with global teams to bring Japanese stories to a wider audience. Marini will report directly to Nicole Clemens, who leads international operations for Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video.
With over 25 years of experience in the entertainment, media, and digital content industries in Japan and Asia, Marini brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. Prior to joining Amazon MGM Studios, he served as the managing director at Warner Bros. Discovery Japan, where he oversaw various aspects of the business including streaming, original production, pay-TV, and licensing. Marini has also held leadership positions at notable companies such as launching the manga platform Mangamo, serving as the CEO of Hulu Japan, and leading Avex Asia from Hong Kong.
Nicole Clemens expressed her excitement about Marini joining the team, stating, “Japan continues to be a key territory for Prime Video. Our customers in Japan have a strong interest in locally produced series and movies. With Buddy’s deep understanding of Japanese entertainment, proven track record in streaming and content production, and strong relationships with key creative and distribution partners, he is well-equipped to drive Amazon MGM Studios’ growth and success in Japan.”
Marini himself expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “I’m thrilled to join Amazon MGM Studios at such a pivotal moment for storytelling and audience engagement in Japan. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with creators, partners, and teams in various sectors including film, television, manga, anime, and streaming. I am passionate about helping great stories reach their fullest audience potential.”
Overall, Marini’s appointment signifies Amazon MGM Studios’ commitment to expanding its presence in Japan and delivering high-quality content to audiences in the region. His extensive experience and industry knowledge make him a valuable addition to the team, and his leadership is expected to drive the studio’s success in the Japanese market.
