DreamWorks Animation SKG has tapped former rival Chuck Viane to serve as a distribution consultant.
Viane worked for DWA's chief competitor, Disney, for 25 years, stepping down as its global distribution chief last summer.
He comes to DWA at a time when the studio is trying to determine how it will handle the global rollout of its movies. A distribution pact with Paramount expires in 2012 and was not renewed after the two studios failed to agree on a price.
Also read: DreamWorks Animation Nixes Distribution Extension with Paramount
DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg has been tight-lipped about whether the studio plans to retain a new partner such as Warner Bros. to oversee its worldwide releases or if the company will self-distribute and partner with foreign companies on select international territories.
Viane worked with Katzenberg while the two were at Disney, the studio said.
"In addition to being a truly great guy, Chuck is one of the smartest, most experienced and respected leaders in the industry and I don't know of anyone with a deeper understanding of the movie landscape, its trends and its future," Katzenberg said in a statement. "At this strategic moment in time for DreamWorks Animation, I am confident that he will serve as an invaluable resource."
