MUMBAI: FremantleMedia has made some senior appointments in key Asian markets as the business steps up its growth in the region.
Glenn Sims will move to Singapore to become director of creative content, with responsibility for the creative output and sales for the Singapore business. Sims is currently serving FremantleMedia as SVP – content and production for Indonesian operations.
In this newly-created role, Sims will be responsible for driving FremantleMedia’s pan-Asian productions, following the success of Asia’s Got Talent this year, the company’s regional production which was broadcast in more than 20 countries.
In addition, Asia managing director Paul O’Hanlon will move to a new role as creative director – China after taking some personal leave to welcome his first child in September.
In China, O’Hanlon will work closely with new CEO Vivian Yin to drive the continued expansion of FremantleMedia’s China business, particularly looking to leverage the recently-signed joint venture between Shanghai Media Group’s BesTV, China Media Capital and FremantleMedia to create and develop entertainment formats for the China market.
FremantleMedia Melbourne managing director and director of business operations Don Keyte will move to Singapore as commercial production management executive. He will report to FremantleMedia Australia chief operating officer Simon Rabbitt, who has now taken on the additional responsibility of Asia.
FremantleMedia regional CEO Australia and Asia Ian Hogg said, “Sims is an outstanding executive and has been a key contributor to our Indonesian company for several years. He will absolutely flourish in this new expanded role. I am also delighted that O’Hanlon has agreed to creatively lead our important joint venture in China. His experience in the region is second to none and as the business continues to expand, having someone of his calibre to work alongside Yin is something I value enormously.”
“Keyte has been a successful part of our Australian company’s leadership team for five years. He brings a strong business focus with a deep understanding of production,” added Hogg.
The current COO of Asia Michelle Landy is stepping down from her role. “Landy has made an enormous contribution to our Asian companies. On a personal level I would like to thank her for her energy, drive and steadfast loyalty,” stated Hogg.
FremantleMedia’s offices in India, China, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand will be given expanded autonomy for further investment, resourcing and growth, moving away from the centralised Singapore model. All businesses will report directly to Ian Hogg.
“Our focus on customers and creative development in Asia with these key appointments allows us to showcase our world-renowned creativity to millions of Asian viewers with content that is made specifically for these markets. There is no doubt that pan regional local production is on the rise,” said Hogg.
“Sims and Keyte will help fuel our growth in Asia with world-class programming and commercial solutions. At the same time, we are giving our individual Asian offices greater independence and control to flex their creative muscle and steer further programming opportunities in their respective markets,” he added.
The appointments are effective immediately.
