How serious is Nintendo about the future of its online connectivity business? Apparently, serious enough to announce a new hire in a new position, focused exclusively on Nintendo's burgeoning online platform. Beginning July 1st, Nintendo of America will have a new "senior vice president of Network Business," a role created to "spearhead the development and evolution of Nintendo of America's digital strategy for the company's Nintendo 3DS and Wii U video game systems."

"By creating this new position we're demonstrating our commitment to the expansion of our online business," Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said in a press release.

Duncan Orrell-Jones will take the position on July 1st and will help "develop and implement long-term digital initiatives" for the Nintendo Network-enabled platforms. He previously resided as senior vice president at Disney Interactive Media Group. According to Nintendo, he expanded Disney's game business outside of North America across a variety of platforms during his tenure.