Amazon Prime Video’s new leadership: A fresh wave of innovation
A new era for Prime Video in Canada
Amazon Prime Video is shaking things up in Canada with the promotion of Mark Shopiro to head of Prime Video, Canada. Reporting directly to Magda Grace, who oversees Prime Video in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, Shopiro’s new role marks a significant step in his career at Amazon, where he has been since 2019. His previous responsibilities included overseeing engagement, marketplace, and sports business for Prime Video in Canada.
Expanding the team
In addition to Shopiro’s promotion, Dan Slepak has been appointed to the newly created role of head of marketplace for Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Slepak, who joined Amazon in 2022, previously worked in content acquisitions for Prime Video Channels and TVOD businesses at Prime Video International. Both Shopiro and Slepak will report to Grace, joining a robust team that includes Brent Hayes (head of international originals, Canada, Amazon MGM Studios), Shaun Alperin (head of content, Prime Video, Canada), and Owen McCorquodale (head of communications, Prime Video, Canada).
Prime Video’s strategic focus in Australia and New Zealand
Hwei Loke steps into the role of head of Prime Video Australia and New Zealand, a position that encompasses customer growth and engagement, local marketing and portfolio management, live sports, and internal partnerships. Loke will also lead all Australian Amazon Originals releases, international Amazon Originals releases in the region, Amazon Exclusives, and third-party licensed content.
A seasoned marketer at the helm
Loke brings over 15 years of marketing experience to the table, having led cross-functional marketing and creative teams for major global and local brands, including The Walt Disney Company, Australian public broadcaster SBS, and Paramount (previously ViacomCBS). She joined Prime Video Australia in 2020 and has since been instrumental in driving tangible growth.
Global brand strategy and social strategy
Hushidar Kharas, Prime Video’s first employee in Australia and New Zealand, is transitioning to a new role as head of Global Prime Video Brand and Social Strategy. Based in the U.S., Kharas will focus on enhancing Prime Video’s brand presence and social media engagement on a global scale.
Production priorities and upcoming releases
Despite scaling back its original production efforts in Southeast Asia and reducing staff at Amazon MGM Studios and Twitch, Prime Video continues to prioritize production in Australia. The company is currently working on the second season of “Deadloch,” a female-driven version of “The Office,” and the prestige mini-series “The Narrow Road to the Far North.”
A rich slate of Australian originals
Since 2019, Prime Video has commissioned 30 Australian original series and features, including:
- The Test S1-3
- Making Their Mark
- LOL: Last One Laughing Australia with Rebel Wilson
- Back to the Rafters
- Luxe Listings Sydney
- Burning
- The Moth Effect
- Head Above Water
- Kick Like Tayla
- Warriors On The Field
- Class of ’07
- The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart
- Dance Life
- A series of ten stand-up comedy specials
- Neighbours
- Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles
- Five Blind Dates
- Top End Bub
Reflections on the future of Prime Video
As Prime Video continues to evolve, the strategic appointments and focus on original content underscore Amazon’s commitment to delivering diverse and engaging entertainment. The new leadership team, with their extensive experience and innovative vision, is poised to drive Prime Video to new heights in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, this means a wealth of new content to explore and enjoy. The upcoming releases promise a mix of drama, comedy, and documentary, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. As the platform continues to grow, viewers can look forward to more original series and features that push the boundaries of storytelling and production quality.
In the ever-competitive world of streaming, Prime Video’s strategic moves and focus on local content production highlight its dedication to staying ahead of the curve. With a strong leadership team and an exciting slate of upcoming releases, the future looks bright for Prime Video and its audience.