\t<\/p>\n
Media Play News<\/a><\/p>\n July 20, 2026<\/p>\n \t<\/p>\n Welcome to Media Play News<\/em>\u2019 ninth annual \u201c40 Under 40,\u201d our recognition of the next generation of leaders helping shape the future of digital entertainment.<\/p>\n Our business has never been more complex. Content now moves through a global network of streaming services, digital retailers, technology platforms, data systems and distribution networks before it reaches consumers. Behind that ecosystem is a talented group of young The individuals featured in this year\u2019s \u201c40 Under 40\u201d represent a broad cross-section of the industry. Some are driving innovation in technology. Others are building audiences, forging partnerships, managing content operations, or helping studios, distributors and platforms navigate a rapidly evolving marketplace. While their responsibilities vary, they share a common trait: an ability to make an impact well beyond their years.<\/p>\n As always, our honorees are presented in random order. Some were nominated by colleagues, others by their companies, and still others by industry peers who believed their contributions deserved wider recognition. Final selections were made by the Media Play News<\/em> editorial team.<\/p>\n We congratulate this year\u2019s honorees and look forward to watching their continued influence on the business in the years ahead.<\/p>\n THOMAS K. ARNOLD: A Talented Group<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Subscribe HERE to the FREE\u00a0Media Play News<\/em>\u00a0Daily Newsletter!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n GM, North America<\/strong> Within his first five months at Quickplay, Bartow secured a groundbreaking partnership with Gray Media, fundamentally reimagining how local news and entertainment reaches 37% of U.S. TV households \u2014 delivering tailored, hyper-local content across 163 websites, 326 mobile apps and 815 smart-TV applications. A 15-year industry veteran with experience in streaming, AI and technology, Bartow joined Quickplay in 2025 following a five-year run at Google Cloud, where he scaled AI solutions to 150 million users for a global streaming company and drove digital fan engagement for LIV Golf. Earlier in his career, Bartow spent three years as a Senior Enterprise Account Executive for Oracle Corp.<\/p>\n Founder<\/strong> Protsyshak is a Los Angeles-based screenwriter, filmmaker and entrepreneur who is a pioneer in vertical filmmaking, in which content is split into brief vertical clips for easy consumption on mobile phones. Protsyshak is the founder of Vert-I-Go Media and the LA Vertical Drama Market, which just finished its second semi-annual edition in Los Angeles. Having worked on more than 35 vertical projects across writing and production, Protsyshak is a leading advocate for the emerging digital format. She is also the creator of the dystopian drama series \u201cOtheR\u201d and hosts monthly \u201cVertical Mixers\u201d in Hollywood to foster a collaborative creative community. She actively collaborates with international teams across North America and Europe.<\/p>\n VP, Content Acquisitions<\/strong> Barrabi-Centeno oversees Maverick Entertainment\u2019s film licensing and acquisitions efforts as well as its self-funded productions. Recent titles include \u201cGirls Need Love,\u201d a hit drama series created by Nina Stakz and Skyy Blair that premiered April 6 on Peacock; If I Can\u2019t Have You<\/em>, a thriller about a married man who embarks on an affair with a seductive and enigmatic woman who soon realizes he\u2019ll never leave his wife; and RAGE: Kill or Be Killed<\/em>, an actioner about a boxer who squares off against his personal hero. Barrabi-Centeno also manages Maverick\u2019s film release schedule. Prior to joining Maverick in 2015, Barrabi-Centeno worked in the legal industry.<\/p>\n VP, Digital Operations and FAST Channels<\/strong> Schwab is a key executive at Maverick Entertainment, the Deerfield Beach, Fla.-based film company that controls the world\u2019s largest library of feature-length Black Cinema, and releases more than 100 films annually across physical and digital platforms. She runs the company\u2019s digital operations team and oversees its growing FAST channel business, which is anchored by its dedicated network, the Maverick Black Cinema Channel. Schwab also manages a social media team and assists in special projects across the Maverick and Liverpool West labels. In addition, she handles the Liverpool West Production side of the business and is also a producer of films and stage productions funded and managed by Maverick.<\/p>\n Manager, Client Marketing<\/strong> Marcial develops strategic marketing initiatives across digital retailers, including Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango at Home and MVPD partners. Recognized for her ability to bridge consumer behavior, partner feedback and cross-functional priorities into actionable marketing strategies, she helps drive campaigns that connect audiences with content in meaningful ways. Before moving into home entertainment, Marcial built her career in music sales and marketing at Universal Music Group, developing retail programs, fan experiences and direct-to-consumer initiatives for some of Latin music\u2019s biggest artists and releases. Her tenure at UMG provided her with a fan-first perspective on partnership marketing, which involves creating opportunities that deliver value for both audiences and distribution partners.<\/p>\n Director, Digital Account Planning<\/strong> Moore keeps the home entertainment division\u2019s sales and marketing teams apprised of business performance and identifies key growth opportunities within the digital ecosystem. Since joining Paramount in 2024 she has overseen the film catalog revenue forecasting process, analyzing promotional campaign results to help guide decision making. Moore also creates ad hoc analysis to strategize the most-effective ways to hit revenue targets, whether it be new product creation, pricing adjustments or new ways to leverage retailer partner capabilities. Earlier in her career Moore worked in both accounting planning and key account manager roles in the digital transactional group at WarnerMedia.<\/p>\n Manager, International Operations<\/strong> Negretti oversees the distribution of physical media for both film and TV titles across EMEA and APAC. Since joining Paramount in 2020 as a coordinator, she has progressed to become a trusted leader responsible for delivering major title releases to international markets. Beyond her operational responsibilities, she has helped drive initiatives that expand release opportunities and support premium collector\u2019s editions for film fans. Negretti consistently embraces new challenges and is a passionate champion of physical media. Her impact on the industry was recognized last year with the 2025 BASE and DEG International Hedy Lamarr Inspirational Women in Entertainment Rising Star Award.<\/p>\n Director, Digital Distribution<\/strong> Based in Sydney, Australia, Sek oversees digital distribution across Southeast Asia, India and Greater China for Paramount, leading partnerships with major streaming services and digital platforms. Since joining Paramount in 2025 she has focused on expanding the availability of Paramount\u2019s new-release slate and library content across Asia, and established new direct distribution opportunities in China. Prior to joining Paramount, Sek led the transactional video business for Amazon\u2019s Prime Video in Australia and New Zealand. There, she managed P&L and partnerships with local and major international studios and distributors. Sek began her career in M&A consulting at Deloitte before transitioning into media and entertainment.<\/p>\n Senior Manager, <\/strong> Shandalov drives programming decisions and on-platform merchandising for Paramount+ across global markets, titles and brands. She oversees content from scheduling and localization through launch, merchandising and performance analysis, bridging strategy, operations and execution to drive engagement and growth. Shandalov joined what was then ViacomCBS in April 2017 after graduating from Yeshiva University, and for the next five years worked across Comedy Central, MTV, Paramount Network, TV Land, the Smithsonian Channel and VH1. She joined the Paramount+ team in May 2022 as Manager of Content Strategy and was promoted into her present position exactly one year later. She played a key role in the integration of BET+ into Paramount+.<\/p>\n Senior Director, Title Marketing<\/strong> Roberts is a key member of the title marketing team at Paramount+. His focus is on film and unscripted content. Roberts began his career at Paramount straight out of college in 2012 as a studio page, which led to an executive assistant role in home entertainment. He spent the majority of his time at the studio there, working across both catalog and new-release titles in brand and retail marketing, and holding a series of progressively more-responsible positions. He ultimately rose to Director of Digital Customer Marketing in 2019. Three years later, Roberts moved over to Paramount+ as Director of Theatrical Marketing. He was promoted into his present position in 2024.<\/p>\n Director, Retail Strategy<\/strong> Regio leads promotional planning and pricing strategy for WBD\u2019s transactional film business, including managing lifecycle planning for the studio\u2019s theatrical new releases and its extensive film catalog. She is responsible for driving incremental revenue opportunities across all major digital retailers, working with cross-functional teams to plan and execute national programs as well as account-specific executions. Regio began her career in the mailroom at CAA and held positions in digital distribution at Our Alchemy and The Jim Henson Co. before beginning a five-year run at Warner Bros. in 2016 in trade and then partner marketing. She rejoined Warner in 2023 after a year in product marketing at Shout! Factory.<\/p>\n Director, Partnership Management<\/strong> Lund leads partnership management at Warner Bros. Discovery\u2019s home entertainment unit across key digital retail partners, including Fandango at Home, Kaleidescape, Row8, and various cable and CTV platforms. He drives go-to-market execution for new-release film and television content, overseeing merchandising strategy, promotional campaigns and revenue performance across the TVOD ecosystem. Beyond his core scope, he has successfully negotiated incremental AVOD and rewards-based programs with multiple partners, unlocking new revenue streams. Lund joined Warner Bros. in 2018 as Manager of Account Planning and was elevated into his present position in February 2026. Lund began his career at Target Corp., managing mobile device categories.<\/p>\n Senior Manager, Sales Planning Operations<\/strong> Schauble plays a key role in sales planning and inventory strategy for WBD\u2019s film and television library. He oversees asset readiness, rights integrity, and content delivery for licensing deals across FAST, AVOD, SVOD and cable platforms, supporting more than 100 clients. He is spearheading systems modernization to streamline and scale global licensing execution, enabling faster, more-informed deal decisions. He also helps guide remastering and music clearance investment strategy to unlock new distribution opportunities across digital and physical media markets for iconic WBD properties such as A Nightmare on Elm Street<\/em> and The Searchers<\/em>. Prior to joining Warner in 2023, Schauble spent nearly five years at consultancy Accenture.<\/p>\n Director, Creative Production Management, <\/strong>Global Creative Operations<\/strong> Jorgensen leads packaging production for film new-release and catalog titles from concept through manufacturing and international file prep. She oversees cross-functional workflows, spanning creative, marketing and vendor management. She has played a key role in streamlining production operations, including developing new project tracking systems, leading initiatives to transition titles to print-on-demand workflows, and spearheading improvements to internal tools and processes that enhance efficiency, scalability, and cross-team collaboration. Jorgensen started her career at Warner Bros. in the WB Studio tour coffee shop before joining the home entertainment group in 2012. She was promoted into her present position in 2022.<\/p>\n VP, Product Management, Ad Platforms<\/strong> As VP of Product Management for Ad Platforms at Disney Entertainment and ESPN, Combs is leading the development of scalable, privacy-conscious solutions across Disney+, Hulu and ESPN. Over more than a decade at Disney, he has built foundational technologies powering the company\u2019s ad business, including the award-winning Disney Real-time Ad eXchange, Disney Ad Server, and YODA, a machine-learning optimization system. Most recently, he has advanced interactive ad formats and programmatic capabilities. Combs was promoted into his present position in November 2023 after nearly three years as Senior Manager and then Director. Earlier, he spent more than eight years at Hulu, most recently as Manager of Product Management, Advanced Delivery Platform.<\/p>\n Director, <\/strong> Houston drives engagement and brand preference for both Disney+ and Hulu, owning the social brand strategy behind their movies, originals, library, live-TV streams and more. With more than 15 years of expertise in content development, audience growth, paid social and data analytics, she says she is passionate about storytelling that creates meaningful connections, accelerates brand growth, and establishes lasting market positions. A two-time Emmy nominee for Outstanding Promotional Announcement, Houston joined Hulu in 2022. Last fall, she led the cross-functional brand social strategy for Hulu\u2019s global expansion, bringing all regions together around a single hero campaign. Earlier in her career, Houston spent seven years at celebrity.land.<\/p>\n Senior Managers, Finance<\/strong> Lai and Qatami are vital members of the Universal Pictures Home Entertainment finance organization. Lai has played an important role in supporting and growing several critical digital business segments. His contributions have helped drive business performance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Most recently he\u2019s been entrusted with the responsibility of building out the international digital forecast model, reflecting the organization\u2019s confidence in his strategic thinking and commitment to delivering results. Prior to joining Universal in 2021, Lai held several financial roles in the media and advertising space. Qatami\u2019s role has evolved to encompass increasing levels of responsibility. His responsibilities have included managing global home entertainment expenses and overseeing the domestic digital and physical businesses. Qatami joined UPHE in 2021 as a Senior Financial Analyst and was promoted to Finance Manager in 2024, and Senior Manager of Finance in January 2026. Prior to joining Universal he was a Senior Assurance Associate at professional services firm RSM US.<\/p>\n Senior Manager, Global Publicity<\/strong> Zurita develops high-impact strategies and innovative activations that engage press and social creators in support of premium digital releases across the global Universal Pictures and Focus Features slates. She manages complex logistics, leads event execution and secures participation from film talent. She has spearheaded campaigns for marquee titles such as Hamnet<\/em> and Twisters<\/em>, driving visibility and generating millions of consumer impressions worldwide. Most recently, she delivered critical contributions to the Jurassic World Rebirth<\/em> and Wicked<\/em> campaigns. Zurita began her tenure with the studio nine years ago as an assistant and has since earned four promotions. Prior to joining Universal, she held positions at Relativity and Manos Public Relations.<\/p>\n Senior Managers, <\/strong>Global Brand Marketing<\/strong> McMahon and Takeda both joined UPHE in 2019. McMahon has quickly distinguished herself as a high-impact campaign leader driving best-in-class home entertainment campaigns. She played a key role in Jurassic World Rebirth<\/em> and the award-winning release of Oppenheimer<\/em>, helping translate their global theatrical momentum into a premium home experience. Most recently, she has been instrumental in shaping the launch strategy for Wicked: For Good<\/em>, aligning creative, partnerships and retail execution on a global scale. Takeda has led complex global campaigns for such high-profile releases as Wicked, Wicked: For Good<\/em> and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie<\/em>. She uses creative problem-solving to build scalable processes supporting major consumer-facing releases. Takeda also completed a six-month temporary assignment in UPHE\u2019s international London office, deepening her focus on global team collaboration and execution. Most recently, she helped drive initiatives to improve cross-market coordination at scale and led UPHE\u2019s first-ever Rose Parade float for the Wicked<\/em> home entertainment launch.<\/p>\n SVP, Comedy Development<\/strong> Macmillan manages day-to-day development of Universal Television\u2019s comedy slate, managing deals with creators including Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Malcolm D. Lee and Seth Meyers, while supervising more than 50 series across NBCUniversal platforms and third-party buyers. She supported the development of HBO Max\u2019s Emmy-winning \u201cHacks,\u201d which also earned a Peabody Award, and led development on \u201cThe Four Seasons,\u201d which debuted on Netflix at No. 1 globally. She is leading upcoming projects including Peacock\u2019s \u201cDig\u201d and NBC\u2019s \u201cSunset P.I.\u201d Her earlier development credits include such acclaimed series as \u201cNever Have I Ever\u201d and \u201cRussian Doll.\u201d Macmillan joined Universal in 2016 and was promoted into her present position in 2022.<\/p>\n SVP, Alternative Programming<\/strong> Femia oversees a slate of premium unscripted series available on Peacock and other top streamers. His credits include Peacock\u2019s first live comedy special, \u201cNew York After Dark,\u201d as well as the game shows \u201cThe Wall\u201d and \u201cThat\u2019s My Jam.\u201d Femia also served as a key force behind the Emmy Award-nominated series \u201cThe Americas,\u201d a 10-episode nature documentary, narrated by Tom Hanks, that debuted on NBC and is now streaming on Peacock and Prime Video, with individual episodes as well as the entire series available for digital purchase at Fandango. A 12-year NBC veteran, Femia was promoted into his present position in 2025.<\/p>\n SVP, Global Sales Strategy and Planning<\/strong> Velasco leads strategy for Lionsgate\u2019s Worldwide Television Distribution team, which the company recently established to unify domestic and international operations into a single team. His group oversees the full content sales lifecycle, from go-to-market strategy through post-execution deal administration. Over the past year, Velasco has contributed to key international sales for series such as \u201cRobin Hood\u201d for MGM+, which Senior Director, <\/strong>Domestic Sales Strategy and Planning<\/strong> Li oversees strategy for Lionsgate\u2019s domestic TV and digital licensing business, spanning a film and television library of more than 20,000 titles. She leads licensing initiatives across major platform partners, licensing iconic IP such as \u201cJohn Wick,\u201d \u201cThe Hunger Games,\u201d \u201cTwilight\u201d and \u201cMad Men.\u201d Li also manages the distribution of new-release, franchise and premium product across Lionsgate\u2019s theatrical Pay-1 output agreements with Starz and Prime Video, as well as first-run series deals. A graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science, Li began her career at Lionsgate in 2020 as a senior coordinator in sales planning. She was elevated into her present position this past April.<\/p>\n Senior Manager, <\/strong>Global Digital Sales and Distribution<\/strong> Crotts leads Lionsgate\u2019s partnerships with Amazon and Google, managing digital content distribution. He also heads the global airline and hospitality content distribution business. In the past year, Crotts closed deals that resulted in the global box office hits The Housemaid<\/em> and Now You See Me: Now You Don\u2019t<\/em> being made available on major international airlines. He previously helped manage the integration of eOne\u2019s library into Lionsgate\u2019s more-than-20,000-title library. Crotts joined Lionsgate in 2019, beginning his career on the corporate development team before moving to global sales and distribution three years later. He was promoted into his present position in 2024.<\/p>\n SVP, International TV and Digital Distribution<\/strong> Leonard oversees Lionsgate\u2019s SVOD add-on channels business and works across international licensing for global and local partners. Over the past year he spearheaded the expansion of Lionsgate\u2019s add-on subscription service into 19 international markets. He also led negotiations with Netflix on all of the studio\u2019s international licensing deals, including licensing popular series such as the police procedural drama \u201cThe Rookie,\u201d which was recently renewed for its ninth season on ABC. He also managed a multiyear output deal with Stan in Australia. Leonard started his career at Lionsgate in 2013 as an assistant to President Jim Packer in the Worldwide Television Distribution Group.<\/p>\n Senior Director, <\/strong>Strategic Advertising Partnerships<\/strong> Fisher leads business development, partnerships and sales at Roku, a leading streaming media platform that brings movies, TV shows and live programming directly to TVs. He\u2019s been instrumental in advancing Roku\u2019s performance advertising strategy, including the launch of Roku Curate, which combines Roku audience insights with data from commerce partners to simplify connected-TV buying and drive measurable business outcomes. Fisher is also responsible for spearheading the strategic partnerships that drive Roku\u2019s measurement and optimization capabilities and enable advertisers to drive more-accountable, performance-focused outcomes, including with iSpot, Nielsen, Omnicom and Amazon Ads. Prior to joining Roku in 2022, Fisher held leadership roles at T-Mobile, Google and MediaMath.<\/p>\n Head of Originals<\/strong> Tannenbaum pioneered Roku\u2019s entry into live events, notably the groundbreaking \u201cLive From Roku City\u201d experience, featuring Demi Lovato, as well as such cultural phenomena as the \u201cLaguna Beach\u201d reunion. He drives massive audience engagement through high-impact sports partnerships \u2014 including the hit \u201cNFL Draft: The Pick Is In\u201d \u2014 and innovative unscripted hits such as \u201cSolo Traveling With Tracee.\u201d By spearheading expansion into Spanish-language programming and Director, Premium Subscriptions<\/strong> Fencel has architected the evolution of Roku\u2019s Premium Subscriptions business into a robust international ecosystem. She drives strategic product vision and multiyear roadmaps that have scaled monetization for the world\u2019s leading streaming partners on the No. 1 streaming OS in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Her impact is evidenced by a record-breaking Q1 performance, with subscription revenue growing 30% year-over-year and sign-ups reaching an all-time high. Fencel has worked to expand Roku\u2019s partner ecosystem to more than 75 tier-1 services \u2014 including Paramount+, HBO Max and Peacock \u2014 and spearhead retention frameworks. Roku in June entered into an agreement to be acquired by Fox Corp. for $22 billion. Fencel joined Roku in 2017 right after earning her MBA from UCLA\u2019s Anderson School of Management.<\/p>\n VP, Operations and Distribution<\/strong> Damodar manages asset delivery for Allen Media Group Motion Pictures and Freestyle Digital Media\u2019s theatrical and digital releases. He works closely on title budgets and cash flow. He previously worked in sales for Freestyle Releasing. Damodar has spent 10 years in the film industry, with experience across post-production, film production, operations, sales and distribution. In 2015, he sold his first feature film, Boiling Pot<\/em>, directed by Omar Ashmawey, distributed by Indican Pictures, and starring Danielle Fishel, Louis Gossett Jr. and Keith David. Damodar also serves on the board of directors for The Frida Cinema, a nonprofit cinema in Santa Ana, Calif.<\/p>\n SVP, Corporate Systems<\/strong> Thiele helps drive the product and technology roadmap for Cineverse\u2019s Matchpoint, an AI-powered, automated media supply chain and technology platform used to manage, distribute and monetize thousands of streaming titles across every format, device and business model. Thiele joined what is now Cineverse in 2012 through the acquisition of New Video, rising from system administrator to her present position, which she assumed in 2023, as the company transformed into a streaming-first entertainment company. In her current role Thiele leads a team of more than 30 technology professionals, managing day-to-day operations across the entire Matchpoint portfolio, embracing AI, automation and emerging technologies.<\/p>\n Art Director<\/strong> Weaver is focused on elevating the quality and impact of PBS Distribution\u2019s marketing campaigns. As art director overseeing the company\u2019s creative services team, he seeks to drive record consumer engagement through compelling, audience-first creative elements while also building strong partnerships with producers and stakeholders on tentpole marketing and promotional campaigns for upcoming releases. Weaver has achieved a reputation for consistently looking for ways to improve the organization\u2019s operational efficiency by sharing resources, streamlining workflows and fostering cross-collaboration. Prior to joining PBS Distribution, Weaver led and contributed to several industry-leading creative campaigns across theatrical, FYC, digital and Broadway.<\/p>\n Chief Business Officer<\/strong> Montalvo co-founded the first Hollywood-backed platform to enter the exploding $11 billion global microdrama market. Under his leadership, GammaTime has established a complete content operation, and reimagined high-engagement storytelling on mobile. In the process, the company has raised more than $30 million \u2014 including an investment, and strategic partnership, with Versant Media, the media company spun off from NBCUniversal earlier this year. GammaTime and Versant will work together to develop a slate of originals and use content from Versant\u2019s entertainment library. Previously, Montalvo was an Emmy-winning streaming and television executive who developed and sold premium series across broadcast and cable, including to Netflix, Peacock and CBS.<\/p>\n Director, Client Services<\/strong> Since joining content distribution specialist Premiere Digital in 2017, Ellman has risen from Digital Media Technician to Director of Client Services through a trajectory built on solving complex problems for nuanced media libraries. During his tenure at Premiere he has overseen myriad high-stakes projects for major studios and streamers. He has built and led a team specializing in large-scale content distribution across electronic sellthrough, VOD and emerging platforms. Ellman also helped spearhead the post-acquisition integration of ADS Hollywood into Premiere Digital by aligning workflows and team structures to unlock and share resources across both organizations. Prior to joining Premiere, he worked in dubbing and marketing as a technician and editor.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/001_0726MPN-238x300.jpg\")
executives who are redefining how movies and television are marketed, managed, delivered and monetized.<\/p>\nJordan Bartow, 39<\/h2>\n
Quickplay<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Jordan-Bartow-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Dana Protsyshak, 28<\/h2>\n
Vert-I-Go Media, Dana Productions and <\/strong>the LA Vertical Drama Market<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dana-Protsyshak-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Erica Barrabi-Centeno, 36<\/h2>\n
Maverick Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Erica-Barrabi-Centeno-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Kelcie Schwab, 35<\/h2>\n
Maverick Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Kelcie-Schwab-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Maverick.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nSandy Marcial, 36<\/h2>\n
Paramount Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Sandy-Marcial-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Judy Moore, 37<\/h2>\n
Paramount Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Judy-Moore-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Julia Negretti, 30<\/h2>\n
Paramount Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Julia-Negretti-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Emily Sek, 32<\/h2>\n
Paramount Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Emily-Sek-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Sarah Shandalov, 31<\/h2>\n
Global Programming Strategy<\/strong>
Paramount+<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Sarah-Shandalov2026-225x300.jpg\")
Michael Roberts, 36<\/h2>\n
Paramount+ <\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Michael-Roberts-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Paramount.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nCatherine Regio, 38<\/h2>\n
Warner Bros. Discovery<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Catherine-Regio-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Jeffrey Lund, 35<\/h2>\n
Warner Bros. Discovery<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Jeffrey-Lund-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Andrew Schauble, 33<\/h2>\n
Warner Bros. Discovery<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Andrew-Schauble-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Kaiti Jorgensen, 38<\/h2>\n
Warner Bros. Discovery
<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Kaiti-Jorgensen-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Warner.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nAlex Combs, 39<\/h2>\n
The Walt Disney Co.<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Alex-Combs-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Anika Houston, 39<\/h2>\n
Social Brand Innovation and Community<\/strong>
Disney+ and Hulu<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Anika-Houston-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Carie Lai, 37 & Jordan Qatami, 32<\/h2>\n
Universal Pictures <\/strong>Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Jordan-Qatami-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Carie-Lai-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Jenny Zurita, 30<\/h2>\n
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Jenny-Zurita-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Giovanna McMahon, 30 & Courtney Takeda, 34<\/h2>\n
Universal Pictures <\/strong>Home Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Courtney-Takeda-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Giovanna-McMahon-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Megan Macmillan, 38<\/h2>\n
Universal Television<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Megan-Macmillan-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Joey Femia, 37<\/h2>\n
Universal Television Alternative Studio<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Joey-Femia-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Universal.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nEric Velasco, 36<\/h2>\n
Lionsgate<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Eric-Velasco-2026-225x300.jpg\")
was recently renewed for a second season. Velasco joined Lionsgate in 2017 as Senior Manager and was promoted into his present position in April 2026. During his nearly decade-long run at Lionsgate, Velasco has helped close more than 20 Pay-1 and Pay-2 output deals across both domestic and international landscapes.<\/p>\nJennifer Li, 30<\/h2>\n
Lionsgate<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Jennifer-Li-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Billy Crotts, 32<\/h2>\n
Lionsgate<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Billy-Crotts-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Chap Leonard, 39<\/h2>\n
Lionsgate<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Chap-Leonard-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Lionsgate.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nMiles Fisher, 36<\/h2>\n
Roku<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Miles-Fisher-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Brian Tannenbaum, 36<\/h2>\n
Roku<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Brian-Tannenbaum-2026-225x300.jpg\")
integrating brand-sponsored content, Tannenbaum is known for consistently aligning scripted titles with key thematic moments, solidifying Roku\u2019s position as a premier destination for generationally resonant, ad-integrated storytelling. He joined Roku in 2021 after two years at Quibi and more than seven at Lionsgate.<\/p>\nNicole Fencel, 38<\/h2>\n
Roku<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Nicole-Fencel-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Dillan Damodar<\/h2>\n
Allen Media Group<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dillan-Damodar-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Michelle Thiele, 39<\/h2>\n
Cineverse<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Michelle-Thiele-2025-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Matchpoint.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nChad Weaver, 38<\/h2>\n
PBS Distribution<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Chad-Weaver-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Alex Montalvo, 38<\/h2>\n
GammaTime<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Alex-Montalvo-2026-225x300.jpg\")
Spencer Ellman, 34<\/h2>\n
Premiere Digital<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Spencer-Ellman-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/40-Under-40-2026-Premiere.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Michelle-Rosales-Gomez-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Ryan-Copeland-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Zachary-Aaronson-2026-225x300.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.mediaplaynews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Adriana-Hernandez-2026-225x300.jpg\")