Announcing the appointment Ross said, "Antoine brings a wealth of media experience and knowledge of the company to his new position and will increase our strong television channel business in India, helping to marshal the many opportunities our channels and content offer to other businesses in The Walt Disney Company."

Villeneuve's new responsibilities include overseeing Disney's large and growing television channel operations across all platforms in India. Three distinct channels make up the core of the company's television business in India.

"I am honoured to be taking on this role," said Villeneuve. "It is an exciting opportunity to be able to lead a team of highly experienced and dedicated television professionals in this fastest growing media market."

For the past three years, Villeneuve has been vice president and managing director for Jetix France, part of Jetix Europe which is majority-owned by The Walt Disney Company. He oversaw all aspects of the channel and its online and consumer products divisions.