SEGA Taps Industry Veteran to Spearhead Transmedia Initiatives
SEGA Corporation has officially announced Justin Scarpone, a former executive with The Walt Disney Company and Scopely Inc., as the new Executive Vice President, Head of Global Transmedia Group, starting from April 1, 2024. This strategic move is part of SEGA’s initiative to enhance its transmedia strategy, leveraging its extensive portfolio of intellectual properties (IP) including Persona, Like a Dragon, Angry Birds, and others.
Background on Justin Scarpone
Justin Scarpone brings over three decades of experience to SEGA, having held key positions at some of the world’s leading entertainment companies. During his tenure at The Walt Disney Company and Scopely Inc., Scarpone has been pivotal in developing and implementing entertainment business strategies that span across the Asia Pacific and Western markets. These strategies have resulted in noteworthy financial successes and the launch of popular gaming titles like LINE: Disney Tsum Tsum, KINGDOM HEARTS, and MARVEL Future Fight.
Based in Tokyo, his expertise extends beyond gaming, having led Walt Disney Japan’s consumer products division. In this role, Scarpone managed the licensing and product distribution for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars merchandise across Japan.
SEGA’s Transmedia Vision
SEGA’s decision to establish a Global Transmedia Group under Scarpone’s leadership underscores its ambition to replicate the success seen with the Sonic the Hedgehog movie across its other IPs. The movie, a collaboration with Paramount Pictures, not only enjoyed global box office success but also catalyzed growth in various content and service categories including merchandising, animation, live entertainment, and more.
With a history spanning over 60 years and the creation of numerous characters and IPs, SEGA is positioning its transmedia strategy as a cornerstone for growth over the next decade. The company aims to expand its IP influence across different media platforms, enhancing the overall brand experience for its audience worldwide.
Strategic Move Forward
Justin Scarpone’s appointment as Executive Vice President, Head of Global Transmedia Group, represents a significant step for SEGA in its efforts to broaden its reach and impact across the entertainment industry. With Scarpone’s proven track record and extensive experience, SEGA looks forward to advancing its transmedia strategy, bringing its beloved IPs to new heights and mediums.
