Emmanuelle Namiech Named CEO of Passion Distribution

LONDON: Emmanuelle Namiech, formerly the managing director of Banijay International, has been appointed CEO of Passion Distribution.

Namiech will take over from Passion Founder and CEO Sally Miles to lead the distribution company’s global strategy and focus on new and existing relations with content partners. She will work closely with Elin Thomas, director of global Sales, and Nick Rees, managing director. Namiech will begin her role as CEO on May 3.

In addition to her time with Banijay International, Namiech previously held senior roles at Target Entertainment and FremantleMedia, where she was senior VP of content acquisitions and development. Namiech also held the post of director of acquisitions and co-productions at ITV Studios Global Entertainment. She held a number of sales posts within Carlton and Granada International before they merged to form ITV Studios Global Entertainment.

Miles commented, “I have thoroughly enjoyed building Passion into a truly global distribution business. With the support of Tinopolis we have continued to cement our international reputation and increase significantly our content and format offering. I have no doubt that the company will continue to grow from strength to strength and flourish under Emmanuelle’s leadership.”

Namiech said, “Sally has established a highly regarded, world-class independent distribution outfit, valued by many content producers and rights owners as a fantastic partner. Sally, along with Nick and Tinopolis have done an incredible job in making Passion into the successful global business it is today. I am very excited to lead the team and help them continue to build on the company’s success.”

Rees added, “We are super excited to welcome Emmanuelle on board. Her track record and unrivaled global expertise make her a great asset to the company, and we have every confidence in her ability to lead the business. We are incredibly proud of everything that Sally has achieved and wish her all the best for the future.”