Paris-based kids programming distribution leader PGS Entertainment has announced it has taken steps to expand, streamline and restructure its operations–including making key executive appointments and promotions. Guy Soutter has been named CFO, Laure Cubeau has been promoted to Head of Operations, Charlotte Selignan has been appointed Head of Marketing and Richard Bickersteth of Looking Forward Productions has been signed as the company’s consultant on toys and games global licensing strategy. PGS president Philippe Soutter made the announcement.
“This is a pivotal time in our company’s evolution. PGS now represents over 1,000 half-hours of kids programming worldwide. And while our goal remains the same–to provide kids programming producers with the support and international distribution network needed to assure the global success of their shows–we also want to be well-positioned to meet the changing needs of our partners, broadcasters and the industry. We are confident we have put together a strong and talented team, as well as new operational systems that will allow us to capitalize on a wide spectrum of opportunities and maximize results for our partners.”
Guy Soutter is a 30-year banking industry professional who joins PGS as its first CFO from his position as president of Paris-based Oberon. Previously he was CFO of the French Bank of Industry.
Laure Cubeau has been with the company since 2010 and is now responsible for customer relations and licensing management via the company’s new digital delivery system.
Charlotte Selignan joins PGS from Chi Fou Mi Productions in Paris. A recent graduate of King’s College London and ESSEC Business School, she also worked at Studio 37 (a subsidiary of Orange).
Looking Forward’s Richard Bickersteth, formerly VP of international entertainment and licensing for Hasbro, will consult PGS on global toys and games licensing strategy, an area which the company plans to expand significantly in 2013.
