Ayo Davis went on to form her senior executive team at Disney Branded Television.
Davis promoted Alyssa Sapire to lead content for Disney Junior, overseeing such shows for preschoolers as Mickey Mouse Playhouse and Dr. McStuffins.
In his new role, Sapire will serve as creative manager for Disney Junior’s content, including development, current programming, and acquisition for both linear and streaming.
Sapire is a senior vp development chain and strategy that works closely with Kareem Daniel’s Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution team to identify, develop, and drive franchise opportunities for Disney Junior.
“Alyssa is a dedicated champion of the power of storytelling and the perfect fit for the Disney Junior brand,” said Davis. “She has assembled a best-in-class team and developed an incredibly powerful content medium with one overarching goal: to create magical, memorable, fun-filled stories, arouse curiosity and live in the hearts of young audiences everywhere.”
At Disney Junior, Sapire has built a diverse medium that includes The Adventures of the Young Jedi, a new one Winnie the Pooh series and Reach out, sing out, a musical series produced by The Roots. Prior to joining Disney, Sapire was in development and programming roles at FremantleMedia Kids & Family Group and spent 10 years at Nickelodeon, where she helped launch Noggin and TeenNick and was a producer at Scholastic.
“It is an honor to be part of a brand that plays such an important role in so many people’s lives,” says Sapire. “As we look to the future, we will continue to thoughtfully develop Disney Junior to satisfy our audience where they are, while building on nearly 100 years of wondrous storytelling by Disney Junior. The Walt Disney Company to inspire the imagination of preschoolers and their families everywhere. “
As part of the appointment, Sapire formed her executive team and installed Kim Berglund as vp developer; Diane Ikemiyashiro and Lori Mozilo as the current series vp.
“Kim, Lori and Diane bring distinct creative perspectives, relationships with the best and brightest creative talent, and a deep respect and care for the brand and its audience. we go to Disney Junior every day. They are all incredible partners to me, and I am delighted to see them expanding their leadership roles.”
