Maria Gurova

Experience

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  The Boeing Company

  Apr 2004 - Jun 2007

  Travel Desk Coordinator
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  The Walt Disney Company

  Jun 2007 - Dec 2013

  This is a position with split function, reporting to Marketing Director and Head of Publishing, key responsibilities include::: Participate in various qualitative and quantitative research development for Franchise Management and Publishing:: Develop and tailor franchise pitch decks, presentations, analysis and competitive landscape evaluations for various internal and external customers :: Implement tactical marketing plans for both priority franchises and new publishing products (kids books and magazines) :: Pitch the existing and potential licensees and/or retail on new franchises, theatrical releases or products Show less

  • Marketing Manager Publishing / Franchise Management

    Jan 2011 - Dec 2013

  • Franchise Management Coordinator

    Oct 2008 - Dec 2010

  • Marketing Team Assistant

    Jun 2007 - Sept 2008
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  The Walt Disney Company

  Sept 2014 - Oct 2019

  This is a strategic marketing function. The objective of this role is to successfully manage TWDC priority franchises across all business segments and lead operational marketing for Licensing business :: Define strategic franchise priorities for TWDC business on the market, develop solid locally relevant marketing strategy for each property to ensure revenue, awareness and likability growth :: Build and lead cross-business segment project teams for high-profile releases and launches (e.g. Studio releases like Star Wars Rogue One):: Collaborate with HQ in California to advocate Russia & CIS needs and region-relevant requirements to ensure incremental business for market:: Build extensive in-depth consumer knowledge, evaluate consumer insights and behavior, media presence indicators, franchise likeability, consumer spent on entertainment to fuel business decisions across segments :: Oversee franchise P&L to address gaps and highlight opportunities across segments:: Manage Marketing budget and expenditure to ensure efficiency of marketing investments :: Develop 4 talents as direct reports, set division goals, asses individual performance and overall team development Show less

  • Director, Head of Content & Franchise

    Nov 2017 - Oct 2019

  • Marketing Director, Head of Fracnhise Management & Licensing Marketing

    Jan 2017 - Nov 2017

  • Sr. Marketing Manager, Franchise Management

    Jan 2014 - Dec 2016

  • Sr. Manager, Franchise Development & Marketing

    Sept 2014 - Dec 2014
• 

  Apple

  Oct 2019 - Nov 2022

  Video Lead

  As a business owner, I developed and executed local strategy, positioning, and messaging, identified growth opportunities, and scaled all Apple video products across key markets.Key Achievements:• Launched Apple TV+ in Russia, Ukraine, and Central Asia, establishing a successful business in a highly competitive video streaming landscape. • Spearheaded an innovative cross-functional project to integrate 11 local streamers and delivered significant media value through establishing partnerships with key local right-holders, telcos, and e-comm.• Increased ARPU in a declining transactional market by establishing strong relationships with global Studios and rights holders to develop new promotional campaigns and launch Premium VOD. • Delivered growth in Users and Viewership through crafting a revamped Editorial strategy for Apple TV+ to better align with business priorities. • Expanded Apple Video’s market share, establishing Apple TV+ as a locally resonant platform, and driving cultural conversation around Apple Films and shows.• Hired and developed a team of 2 highly motivated individuals to support Apple Video’s business objectives. Show less