Netflix promotes Elizabeth Stone

The experienced tech executive will now also oversee the streamer’s product teams in her newly created role as chief product and technology officer. Stone (pictured) was named Netflix’s first chief tech officer in 2023, and she has led the engineering and data & insights teams for the past three years. Her role expansion follows the departure last year of former chief product officer Eunice Kim, who now serves as a technical advisor at The New York Times. 

JioStar appoints a Pixar alum to head up its genAI strategy

Stephan Bugaj has joined the Indian media giant as its first-ever SVP of genAI content and technology. In this role, Bugaj will spearhead AI-powered initiatives across the company’s pipeline, including user interfaces, interactive formats, content production systems and engagement tools. He was most recently the chief creative officer of New York-based video game studio Genvid Holdings and has past experience as a studio creative director at Telltale Games and story development & technical director at Pixar. 

Women in Animation recruits an executive director

Seasoned marketing and PR consultant Hayley Porter will be the nonprofit’s first executive director, leveraging her experience working in the animation and entertainment industries to identify business opportunities and strategic partnerships for WIA members. She has been part of WIA’s PR and fundraising committee for the past nine years, and professionally has held executive roles at BaoBab Studios (marketing director), Sunrise Productions (marketing & PR global director) and Aardman Animations (marketing and publicity manager).  

Funko hires a new GM of Loungefly 

The collectibles toyco has recruited Jessica Kong to oversee Loungefly’s global business and develop partnerships and growth strategies for the fashion-forward brand as general manager. Kong has more than 15 years experience working with lifestyle-focused brands at companies including interior design company Kelly Wearstler (SVP of operations) and McKinsey & Company (engagement manager).