Lightning Names New TV Distribution Director

HONG KONG: Julien Dutronc has left TV5 Monde to become the director of TV distribution for Lightning International.

In his new role, Dutronc will manage regional sales and distribution for the company's various television networks. He will be charged with the rollout of such channels as TRACE Sports Stars HD, TRACE Urban HD and MEZZO Live HD.

For the last several years, Dutronc had been handling channel distribution and affiliate sales and marketing for Asia at TV5 Monde.

James Ross, the CEO of Lightning International, commented: "As part of the continuing expansion of Lightning International, it is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Julien Dutronc as director [of] TV distribution, effective today. Julien has a wealth of great experience across the Asia-Pacific region, and has developed a deep knowledge of the diverse cultures and TV audiences in the many countries we cover."

Dutronc added: "I am thrilled to join the team at Lightning International to elevate the presence of our ensemble of channels in both existing and untapped markets. I am proud to oversee the next phase of growth for the company's channels and I look forward to more brands joining our portfolio in the next few months."