Morgann Favennec, a 20-year veteran of the global audiovisual market, has been tapped by Xilam Animation as its new Executive Vice President of Development and Global Sales, effective July 3. Favennec joins the company at a time of rapid expansion from Superights, where she was Deputy Managing Director – International Sales & Acquisitions.
Working under Founder & President Marc du Pontavice, Favennec will be responsible for developing Xilam’s commercial activities — from exploiting new markets to position the group for new opportunities — as well as seeking out potential acquisitions and co-productions, both domestically and abroad. She will also have an active role in the development of new IPs within the company. Favennec will lead a 14-person team spanning marketing, sales, digital and licensing activities.
“Morgann has an impressive track record and incredible expertise in programming for the youth market sector. She masters and understands all key areas of activity, from the creative process to distribution, from acquisition to negotiation,” said du Pontavice. “She has proven credibility in all of the international markets, and we are extremely happy that she has agreed to put her know-how at the service of helping Xilam and all of its brands as the company continues to grow.”
Favennec obtained a Masters in International Sales Negotiation from the Sorbonne, beginning her career with Europe Images (now LE Rights). She joined Latin American market specialist Salsa Distribution in 1997. When the company was acquired by TV-Loonland, Favennec took the opportunity to focus on Europe, handling sales of series including Clifford the Big Red Dog and Little Ghosts.
As an independent consultant, she also brought Tractor Tom and hit preschool animation Peppa Pig to France, before signing on as Acquisitions Manager at Disney Televisions and Jetix. Favennec joined M6 Group (part of Bertelsmann) in 2006 as Head of Children’s Programs, which post she held until returning to the distribution sphere with Superights in 2013.
“In just 20 years, Marc and his talented teams have been able to create and solidify brand names that have become references for millions of children and families in France and around the world. Today, I am happy and extremely proud to be joining this amazing company and I will be investing all of my energy and competence towards working for Xilam’s continuing success and expansion,” Favennec commented in the announcement.
