Walt Disney Company names Rochelle Knock as head of SSA operations

As head of the region, she will represent The Walt Disney Company in SSA, driving overall business growth strategy and fostering collaboration across the team to deliver on growth opportunities.  

In addition, she will lead the direct-to-consumer business as well as the family and factual linear networks activity, support and partner with the platform distribution team, and support the development of the business in other areas managed at a regional EMEA level.  

Align with the company’s business priorities 

Knock will also ensure that the local organisation consistently aligns with the company’s brand, franchise and overall business priorities. 

The Walt Disney Company, through its subsidiary and affiliated companies, has been active in Africa, primarily in South Africa, for more than six decades. It has a presence in 40 sub-Saharan countries. Disney+, the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, is currently available in South Africa. 

“Rochelle’s appointment to lead the Disney business and team in sub-Saharan Africa is an important milestone in our 60-plus years on the continent,” comments Simon Amselem, Senior Vice President Direct-to-Consumer & Networks, and Country Manager Iberia and Sub-Saharan Africa. 

“Her deep understanding of the industry landscape coupled with her expertise in customer value and product management complements our ambitious plans to drive growth and reach new audiences with our storytelling.” 

Extensive leadership experience 

Knock has extensive leadership experience across media, telecommunications and digital payment businesses, spearheading growth and innovation across some of Africa’s most recognisable and trusted brands. 

At Yoco Technologies she managed lifecycle engagement, delivering strategies to enhance customer retention and product growth in the pivotal field of digital payments.  

Previously, Knock held senior executive positions at MultiChoice Group – including being Executive Head of Product and Base Management, and Executive Head of Customer Value Management – where she led cross-functional teams across product, consumer marketing, data and analytics, and operations.