Jim Watters

President and General Manager, Universal Operations Group

Jim Watters was named President and General Manager, Universal Operations Group, in February 1997. He has overall executive responsibility for Studio Operations, including production and post production facilities, and ancillary production support departments. In addition, he oversees and manages the company's real estate of over 2 million square ft. of office and production support space within Universal’s 392 acres. Watters has successfully spearheaded Studio Operations Group, expanding Universal’s position as a premiere production facility. He reports to Ron Meyer, President and Chief Operating Officer, Universal Studios and John Eck, President, NBC TV Network & Media Works.

A 34 year veteran of Universal, Watters most recently served as Executive Vice President of Production and Post Production, Universal Television, a position he held since January 1996. As Executive Vice President, Watters was responsible for all areas of production including the budgeting and execution of numerous high profile television series and movie of the week projects. Prior to that, he was Executive Vice President of Universal City Studios Operations Group since 1990 and President of Universal Facilities since 1995. Before that, Watters was Executive Vice President of Production and Post Production, MCA Television Entertainment, a start-up division, where he oversaw the production and post production of 18 made for cable movies and four series.

Watters began his career at Universal in 1976 in the post production theatrical area, where he served in various executive capacities including Senior Vice President of Post Production.

Watters is currently a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He serves as the vice chair for the Providence St. Joseph Foundation and is chairman of their Financial Development Committee. In addition, Watters serves on the Executive, Communications, Nominating and Golf Committees at St. Joseph’s.