Atlantic Productions Bolsters U.K. Team

LONDON: Atlantic Productions has strengthened its U.K. team with several promotions and new hires, including the appointment of Ian Syder as head of production.

In his new role, Syder will spearhead the production management team. He will work across film, TV, digital and VR projects. Syder is an award-winning line producer and production manager who began his career on the Big Brother team before going on to launch Deal or No Deal, and then moving into documentary filmmaking. He has also worked at Off the Fence.

Emily Smith is joining Atlantic Productions in the newly created role of director of marketing and business development. Smith will be responsible for the company’s strategic marketing, commercial partnerships and corporate communications. She will lead the company’s academic, cultural and stakeholder relationships. She will report to Atlantic’s managing director, Claudia Perkins. Prior to coming on board at Atlantic, Smith led the programming of temporary exhibitions, events, digital strategy and marketing at London’s Natural History Museum.

In addition, BAFTA-winning and Emmy-nominated writer, producer and director Mike Davis has been elevated to the post of associate creative director. Davis will serve as creative director across Atlantic’s television, IMAX, theatrical and VR slate. He will report to CEO Anthony Geffen. Davis joined Atlantic in 2013 to supervise David Attenborough’s Natural History Museum Alive 3D. He went on to direct the series Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough and produced the special David Attenborough Meets President Obama.

Geffen commented: “We are thrilled to be announcing the promotions and hires of this wonderful group of people. Mike, Ian and Emily all have long-running relationships with Atlantic, and they bring a mixture of enthusiasm, expertise and insight to their respective roles, which will be invaluable as we embark on further growth as an organization.”