Marc Buhaj has been named the senior vice president of programming and general manager at Disney XD, the basic cable channel and multiplatform brand for kids.
He replaces former general manager David Levine, who has transitioned into the role of vice president of programming, production and strategic development for Disney Channels Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
Buhaj will report to Sean Cocchia, senior vice president of business operations and Disney Channels Worldwide general manager, as well as Paul DeBenedittis, senior vice president, programming strategy at Disney Channels Worldwide.
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“Marc has an expansive background in kids TV, spanning programming strategy, content creation and global acquisitions. He is a fresh, innovative thinker who will bring new insights onto our team as we continue to build the Disney XD brand,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, in a statement.
The new GM will be responsible for fueling Disney XD’s growth, overseeing the multiplatform and U.S. TV brand and its strategic direction. He will also oversee strategic multiplatform programming and scheduling. He’ll also work with the programming team to identify acquisition and co-production opportunities. Additionally, Buhaj will provide support of the Disney XD channels around the world in original content development and programming acquisition strategy.
Buhaj brings with him a rich experience in international television, animated and children’s programs, and the launching of new brands.
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He joined Disney in 2007 as senior vice president of programming at Jetix Europe. Then in 2009, Buhaj became the senior vice president of original programming for Disney Channels EMEA. In the role, he oversaw Disney’s London-based production hub, including animation and live action content. His projects included Disney Channel Latin America’s popular tween telenovela “Violetta” and Disney XD’s animated comedy series, “Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja.”
Before arriving at Disney, Buhaj served as Cartoon Network and Boomerang U.S.’s vice president of programming and scheduling. While there, he played central roles in launching the network’s multiplatform initiatives and brands, including “Teen Titans,” “Scooby-Doo,” “Tom and Jerry,” and “Pokémon.”
Previously, he was the executive director of programming and acquisitions for Turner Entertainment Networks Asia. During his tenure, he was part of the core team that developed and launched India kids TV channel, POGO.
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Before joining Turner in 2001, he served as a network programmer for Seven Network in Australia.