China is one of Disney Consumer Products’ (DCP) largest growth opportunities and is projected to experience continued and faster growth, year over year. DCP is pleased to announce that Guenther Hake has been named to lead DCP Greater China and has been promoted to senior vice president and managing director, Disney Consumer Products and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment (WDSHE). In his new role Guenther will drive an integrated business, including DCP’s licensing business and the sales teams for DCP and WDSHE, and develop the Disney brand to create an immersive experience for Chinese consumers. He will build relationships with Disney’s other Chinese businesses to deliver on joint opportunities and integrate Disney’s approach to retailers in the Greater China market. Guenther will relocate to Shanghai July 1.

“Guenther has played a valuable role in the expansion of DCP’s business in Europe over the last several years,” said Andy Mooney, chairman of Disney Consumer Products. “He brings all the necessary skills to lead our business in the critical markets of Greater China as this region becomes more and more important to our overall growth strategy.”

“Disney Consumer Products is a key brand driver across Greater China and an integral part of our overall entertainment offering,” said Stanley Cheung, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, The Walt Disney Company, Greater China. “Guenther's wealth of experience will be a valued addition to the Greater China team and we look forward to welcoming him,” he added.

Most recently, Guenther has been vice president, Retail Sales and Marketing for DCP Europe. Under his leadership, European sales have grown strongly. He has developed excellent relationships with European key accounts, leveraging the sales strategy through dedicated offices for Carrefour, Tesco, Asda, Migros and C&A; established regional sales meetings to align licensees on priorities; and drove regional best practice sharing and talent assessment. Guenther joined DCP in 2004 as vice president for Retail Sales and Marketing, Germany, Switzerland and Austria, and moved to the regional European RSM role in 2006. He holds an MBA degree from University of Emden, Germany and worked for Coca Cola, Nike and other companies prior to joining Disney.