David Ellender Joins Sonar

NEW YORK: Sonar Entertainment has tapped David Ellender to fill the newly created position of president of global distribution and co-productions.

Ellender joins Sonar after serving as CEO and board member of the independent TV studio he founded, Slingshot. He was previously CEO of Fremantlemedia Enterprises (FME). At Sonar, he is tasked with overseeing all worldwide program sales across traditional and digital platforms. This includes the company’s North American business and expanding its presence across Europe, Latin America and Asia. Driving international co-pro partnerships for Sonar is also a key priority in Ellender’s new role. The news comes following Sonar confirming interim chief Thomas Lesinski as its CEO.

“David Ellender’s addition to Sonar’s senior leadership team helps position the company for ever greater accomplishments in 2016 and beyond,” said Gabriel de Alba, chairman of Sonar Entertainment, “We have a clear strategy, a singular creative vision and an unparalleled commitment to succeed.”

“David Ellender is one of the industry’s most highly respected and accomplished executives,” added Lesinski. “Our commitment to the continued global growth and expansion of Sonar requires a leader with an exceptional understanding of the evolving media landscape. David has the skills and experience to lead Sonar’s ambitious growth plans in television, film and digital. David will play a critical role in leading the team and we are excited to welcome him to Sonar.”

“I am extremely thrilled to take on this leadership role at Sonar, a company with tremendous positive momentum and one that is poised for outstanding success in the coming months and beyond,” commented Ellender. “I embrace the opportunity to be a part of this growing and vibrant organization and to build something special together with these talented, creative professionals.”