FremantleMedia International Reshapes Senior Team

LONDON: Jens Richter, the CEO of FremantleMedia International (FMI), has put in place a new structure for the company's senior management team, in an effort to strengthen central operations and finance functions and increase sales focus in emerging markets.

Bob McCourt, former CFO and director of operations, becomes COO as part of the new structure. He will assist Richter in setting and implementing the FMI’s strategic and commercial direction, and oversee all operational and financial aspects of the distribution business. McCourt’s day-to-day financial responsibilities are taken over by Darren Green, who has been promoted from senior financial controller to financial director.

There are also changes within the global sales teams. Singapore-based Haryaty Rahman has been named senior VP of sales and distribution for Asia. Ganesh Rajaram, the executive VP of sales and distribution for Asia, and Sheila Aguirre, the executive VP of content distribution and format sales for Latin America and U.S. Hispanic, will now report directly to Richter. As part of this renewed focus, FMI is also looking to hire a new senior executive for Central and Eastern Europe.

Richter commented: “Since joining FremantleMedia International, I’ve been hugely impressed by the energy and dedication of the sales teams in every corner of the world. Today’s announcement seeks only to strengthen the team further and recognizes the brilliant work they’ve done so far. I’m delighted to have Bob working side by side with me—he’s been a fantastic aide since I joined FMI—while changes to reporting structures reflect our increased commitment to the emerging markets and the potential opportunities they offer.”