It is the first time Sony has dispatched a Japanese executive to play a direct and official role in the studio operations.

I knew the studio operations better than anybody.

He will bring his experience in televising shows to the studio operation.

His responsibilities also included the company's studio operations and global distribution efforts.

He has lost none of his scorn for certain photographers who today maintain thriving studio operations but claim to hear a higher calling.

"We spend a zillion dollars on a studio operation in New York and they can't fill 10 minutes?"

Meanwhile, there have been disappointing results from the company's studio operation, which is dominated by the movie business.

Matt also provided help in studio operations and engineering.

He will be responsible for worldwide strategic planning and studio operations, including finance and human resources.

He will oversee movie production, theme parks and studio operations "through at least 2012," the company said.