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Entertainment

Amazon Prime Video Southeast Asia Restructures Operations Amid Global Redundancies

Lauren Baxter

By Lauren Baxter

Published January 13, 2024

Amazon Prime Video is undergoing a significant restructuring of its operations in Southeast Asia, as part of a broader wave of redundancies announced earlier in the week. The streaming service is shifting to a 'leaner operating model' in the region, leading to a decrease in investments and a reduction in headcount at the Singapore office.

Shift to Licensing Local and Pan-Regional Content

Under the new operating model, Prime Video Southeast Asia will pivot towards licensing local and pan-regional content, particularly from South Korea, the Japanese anime market, and India, in addition to its U.S. offering. This move signifies a strategic shift away from investing in local originals and a focus on content acquisition from key markets in the region.

Impact on Staff and Leadership

The restructuring will result in a major reduction in headcount at the Singapore office, with almost all staff from the local originals team exiting the company. Approximately 25 employees will remain in Singapore to work on Prime Video operations across Southeast Asia. Furthermore, the note from Gaurav Gandhi confirms that David Simonsen will continue to lead the scaled-back Singapore team, collaborating more closely with centralized business teams.

Continued Focus on Other APAC Territories

Despite the changes in Southeast Asia, Prime Video remains committed to its investment focus in other APAC territories, including Japan and India. Gaurav Gandhi assured that there would be 'no change in our investment focus' in these regions, highlighting the company's ongoing commitment to these key markets.

Reassurances and Support for Impacted Employees

In light of the redundancies, Gaurav Gandhi expressed optimism about the long-term future of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasizing the company's significant steps and investments towards becoming the preferred entertainment destination globally. He also extended support to impacted employees, encouraging them to reach out to the HR team and reminding them of the availability of the Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential help.