National Geographic Kids Entertainment Names Intl. Sales Heads

WASHINGTON: Debbie Back and Jennifer Liang have been appointed to lead international sales for National Geographic Kids Entertainment ahead of MIPCOM.

Back will lead worldwide sales for National Geographic Kids Entertainment. She joins from Handmade Kids, where she managed TV, home entertainment and licensing and merchandising rights for Animation Collective and National Geographic Kids programming in major territories. Back previously served as the senior VP of international program sales for MTV Networks International.

Liang has been appointed senior director of sales and strategy, working closely with Back to negotiate U.S. and international program sales. She will also manage the financial aspects of the National Geographic Kids business. Liang previously served as VP of international program sales for Handmade Kids. Liang also previously held the role of director of worldwide sales for HBO Enterprises, along with various posts at MTV Networks.

Both Back and Liang will be based in New York. Back reports to David Beal, the president of National Geographic Entertainment. Liang will report to Back.

“Debbie Back and Jennifer Liang’s considerable sales expertise puts National Geographic Kids Entertainment in a powerful position to build our brand,” said Beal. “Throughout her work within the industry, Debbie has built incredibly deep relationships with broadcasters, agents and independent animation and production houses. Jen’s ties within the industry are equally solid, and she has a proven track record in growing strong, enduring properties that can be carried to multiple audiences around the world.” Beal added, “We’re excited to bring this new sales force on board National Geographic Kids Entertainment, and look forward to giving them the ability to nurture and further extend the National Geographic brand name in the kids’ space.”