David Levine has been promoted to the newly created role of GM and VP of programming at Disney XD Worldwide in a move that signals the boys-skewing brand’s growing presence under the Disney Channels Worldwide banner.

Levine will guide Disney XD’s scheduling and will work with the programming team to identify acquisition and co-production opportunities.  His operational scope will broaden to include strategic direction for the multiplatform Disney XD brand and 24-hour, ad-supported channel in the US.  He will also support the Disney XD channels around the world in original content development and programming acquisition strategy.

Levine most recently served as VP of Worldwide Programming Strategy, Acquisitions and Co-Productions for Disney Channels Worldwide, and was responsible for overseeing global programming and acquisition strategies for the Disney ABC kids’ brands worldwide.  He led the task force to launch Disney XD channel in the US and facilitated its rollout worldwide.  His credits also include creating the business model for Disney Channel’s global television movie co-productions and managing the inception of co-production opportunities for all Disney kids platforms.

Before joining Disney in 2004, Levine was VP of Business Affairs and Development at Ragdoll USA, where he oversaw all legal matters and North American television sales.  Previously, he was General Counsel to The itsy bitsy Entertainment Company, overseeing the legal group supporting the Teletubbies franchise in North/South America.