Netflix announced on Thursday that Peter Rice will become its chief content officer, the executive responsible for its programmes and films. Rice, who previously led Disney’s television business, will manage Netflix’s content worldwide. His responsibilities will cover scripted series, shows without scripts, films and live events. He replaces Bela Bajaria, who has held the position since January 2023 and is leaving after nearly ten years at Netflix.
The appointment follows another major announcement. A day earlier, Netflix said it would cut roughly 1,000 jobs, representing about 6% of its staff. In a message to employees, the company’s two chief executives, Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters, said the business remained strong and was growing.
However, Sarandos said at a conference last month that Netflix was not growing as quickly as he wanted. Explaining the leadership change to staff, he said there was an opportunity to improve the company’s range of shows and films. He particularly highlighted the US and Canada as areas where he saw that opportunity.
