Gerhard Zeiler to Receive International Emmy Directorate Award

Warner Bros. Discovery president of international, Gerhard Zeiler, has been selected to receive the 2026 International Emmy Directorate Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the global television industry and have demonstrated outstanding leadership and vision.

Zeiler's extensive career in international television distribution and content creation has been marked by strategic leadership and a deep understanding of global markets. Under his tenure, Warner Bros. Discovery has expanded its international presence and diversified its content offerings across various platforms and regions. His work has been instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of international media, fostering partnerships, and driving growth in key markets worldwide. The International Emmy Directorate Award celebrates individuals who have shaped the television landscape through their innovative approaches and commitment to excellence.

He will join Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria, who was previously announced as an honoree for the organization's Founders Award. Bajaria's recognition highlights her significant impact on Netflix's global content strategy and its evolution into a dominant force in streaming entertainment. The International Emmy Awards, organized by the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, celebrate excellence in television programming produced and distributed outside of the United States. The awards ceremony aims to bring together television professionals from around the globe to honor outstanding achievements and foster international collaboration.

Both Zeiler and Bajaria are scheduled to accept their respective awards at the 54th International Emmy Awards Gala. This event, a highlight of the international television calendar, brings together industry leaders, creators, and executives to celebrate the best in global television. The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, established in 1969, is dedicated to promoting television programming of the highest quality and fostering cultural exchange through television. The Directorate Award, in particular, is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in the television industry, significantly impacting its growth and development on a global scale. Zeiler's selection underscores his profound influence and sustained commitment to the international television sector.