Variety names Asia bureau chief

Variety, which covers the business of entertainment, has tapped Patrick Frater as Asia bureau chief.

Based in Hong Kong, Frater will provide news and analysis, as well as oversee and coordinate coverage of the region.

Frater, who worked for Variety from 2005 to 2009, has been a journalist for more than 20 years and has lived in Asia since 2005. He was most recently the CEO of Film Business Asia, a website that he co-founded that covers news throughout the continent. He will write about culture and business deals in various Asian countries.

He will report to senior vice president/international editor Timothy Gray and will work with Variety’s business team to initiate events and services in the region.

“Asia and India are likely the most significant growth areas for the industry, which makes them key growth areas for Variety,” said CEO Jay Penske in a statement. “Patrick knows those territories better than anyone, and his hire is just one important step for Variety as we continue to expand and deepen our international coverage.”

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