As NBC Universal International's new Managing Director, Japan Representative, Fukuda will be based in Tokyo and work with the heads of various divisions to maximise the company's growth potential. These divisions include home-entertainment arm Universal Pictures Japan, TV and New Media Distribution, Mobile Entertainment and CNBC.

Fukuda holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and has held many senior positions relating to strategic planning including executive roles at Dentsu Inc and General Electric, which has an 80% stake in NBC.

Recently appointed President of NBC Universal International Peter Smith said of Fukuda, 'Taichi has a great track record of business development and growth leadership. He will be a key component to driving important initiatives and maximizing cross-divisional opportunities in one of our key growth territories. Our focus is to extend NBCU's global footprint and accelerate international growth and this key role will facilitate the execution of new business opportunities in this vital region.'