Disney Taps FremantleMedia Exec for Formats Role

LONDON, January 22: Disney-ABC International Television has
appointed Naomi Joseph, formerly with FremantleMedia, as the executive director
of format development for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Joseph will oversee local production of Disney-ABC’s reality
and entertainment formats and the adaptation of its scripted series in EMEA
territories. She will work closely with Disney-ABC International’s sales teams
in those markets.

Joseph was most recently the executive VP of worldwide drama
for FremantleMedia. In her role, she was responsible for the development, sale
and executive production of dramas, telenovelas and sitcoms throughout the
world, including local productions of The IT Crowd, Neighbours and Betty La Fea.

“Our formats
and re-versioning activity is a key part of our portfolio development strategy,
and plays an important part in further cementing our content’s connection with
local audiences,” said Maria Kyriacou, the VP of Disney-ABC’s Portfolio
Development Group, to whom Joseph reports. “It’s fantastic to be bringing into
the team Naomi’s wealth of experience working on major format productions.”

Joseph added: “I’m thrilled to be joining Disney-ABC
International Television, and look forward to working with international
partners to explore the exciting opportunities for its rich portfolio.”

—By Ned Berke