WildBrain is bringing in a new team of executives as the company shifts to focusing on content creation, audience engagement, and global licensing. Nick Gawne has been appointed as WildBrain’s new Chief Financial Officer, effective today. Gawne has worked in the kids and family space for more than 20 years, including almost 15 years at eOne.
In addition, Stephanie Betts has been appointed Executive Vice President for Content Creation and will oversee creative teams behind WildBrain’s content. WildBrain’s digital studio in London will now report to Betts. Kate Smith has been appointed Executive Vice President for Audience Engagement and will oversee all aspects of WildBrain’s content distribution including its YouTube and digital marketing. Maarten Weck has been appointed Executive Vice President for Global Partnerships and Licensing and will oversee key global intellectual property (IP) partnerships with partners across all of WildBrain. He will also continue to oversee all activities of WildBrain CPLG.
“Nick’s deep experience in finance and operations for kids’ IP is an ideal fit for WildBrain,” says Josh Scherba, WildBrain President and CEO. “With our strong leadership team, I’m confident this new, simplified structure will supercharge our plans to focus on the growth of key owned IP, such as Peanuts, Teletubbies, and Strawberry Shortcake, alongside key partnership brands.”
“I’m delighted to be joining the WildBrain team, as I’ve long admired the company’s capabilities and IP portfolio,” Gawne says. “I look forward to working with Josh as well as the senior management and finance teams across the global organization to help accelerate the growth of our brands and business and to drive value for shareholders.”
Some of WildBrain’s partner brands include Peanuts, Strawberry Shortcake, and Teletubbies.
