Nat Geo Ventures Names International Development VP

LONDON: Darren Poynton has been appointed to the dual roles of heading up finance in London for National Geographic Television International (NGTI) and serving as VP of international development for the recently announced National Geographic Ventures International (NGVI).

At NGVI, Poynton will be responsible for identifying and creating more cross-platform opportunities for the National Geographic businesses under the NGVI umbrella, including games, mobile and digital media. He will work closely with the U.S.-based business heads to further develop their activities in the international marketplace. Poynton previously worked for National Geographic Channels International for nine years.

Maurice van Sabben, NGTI and NGVI president, commented, “I am delighted to have Darren on board as the first official NGVI appointment. His commercial experience will undoubtedly prove a great asset in meeting the objectives we have set for NGVI and the fact that he is already more than familiar with many elements of National Geographic is a real bonus. In addition, his financial role will also provide great support to the growing National Geographic Television International business in London.”

"The creation of NGVI represents a great opportunity to expand the international distribution of National Geographic’s incredible content,” added Poynton. “It is an exciting prospect for me to be joining NGVI in its early days and I look forward to drawing on my international media experience to help identify new business and to maximize returns from all potential platforms."