Starzplay hires Intigral’s Tony Saab for original production & acquisitions

Tony Saab

Dubai-based Starzplay has appointed Tony Saab as SVP of content and strategic partnerships.

He will take responsibility for developing and implementing content acquisition and original production strategies to boost the MENA streamer’s library of original content and shows. The role covers all aspects of content acquisition, programming, and production for genres including movies, series, documentaries, sports and kids’ shows.

Saab will be responsible for building as well as renewing strategic relationships with regional and global players to bring content to Starzplay.

Maaz Sheikh, CEO and co-founder of Starzplay told TBI last year that the streamer is on the lookout for Arabic scripted shows skewing towards a younger adult demographic as it pushes into original content, and is particularly looking to appeal to the 17 to 35-year-old segment.

Saab joins Starzplay from Intigral, where he headed content and production and led on content acquisition. Serving for 13 years, Saab was responsible for managing the operational and technology capability of Intigral’s IPTV and OTT broadcast operations. His previous roles include as head of resources at Sharjah Media Corporation as well as head of presentation at Rotana.

Sheikh said that Saab “comes with an extensive experience and an unmatched talent to make impactful programming choices. His in-depth industry knowledge will further cement Starzplay as the region’s leading streaming service delivering unmatched content.”