Walt Disney Co. has appointed 16-year company veteran Paul Candland to the entertainment company’s new position of president for its Asia division.

The Burbank entertainment giant announced Candland’s appointment late Monday.

Candland most recently served as Disney’s president in Japan. In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing Disney’s operations in Greater China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia. Greater China encompasses mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Candland will report to Andy Bird, chairman of Walt Disney International.

Disney also announced on Tuesday that Stanley Cheung has been promoted from the position of managing director for Walt Disney Co., Greater China, to chairman of Disney’s Greater China operation. Senior Vice President Luke Kang has been selected to take on Cheung’s former job.

“Asia is a region of incredible growth and great promise for Disney, and these management changes are designed to ensure we maximize our opportunities there today and in the future,” Robert A. Iger Walt Disney Co.’s chief executive, said in a press release.

Share prices of Walt Disney Co. closed Tuesday at $86.20, down 1 percent, on the NYSE.