Pantheon Media Group Taps ITV Alum as New Head of Creative

Simon Thomas, formerly president of ITV Entertainment, has joined Pantheon Media Group as its new head of creative.

With more than two decades of experience developing, producing and distributing unscripted content across global platforms, Thomas will help steer creative across Pantheon’s 20-plus labels, shape innovative IP and strengthen the company’s position as a global format leader.

Most recently, Thomas served as president of ITV Entertainment and head of international programming. He led the creative and production strategy behind some of the past decade’s top reality formats. He launched Love Island USA and created the franchise’s first spin-off, Love Island Games, and developed and sold its first docuseries, Love Island: Beyond the Villa. He also oversaw the international rollout of My Mom Your Dad and was the original showrunner on Forged in Fire. He additionally has credits on Twin Love, The Four, Big Brother Australia and Aussie Christmas Lights.

“Simon’s track record speaks volumes and perfectly aligns with our focus on big, bold and globally commercial formats,” said Jennifer O’Connell, CEO. “Having worked with him before, I’m genuinely thrilled to reunite in a closer capacity—he’s a true talent, and I know he’ll be a game-changer for our team.”

“Simon’s arrival marks an exciting chapter for Pantheon as we continue to scale our creative ambitions and build fast-moving, creator-led and globally minded content,” commented Steve Michaels, chairman of Pantheon Media Group. “He’s one of the sharpest minds in the business, and in joining Pantheon, he has the best possible platform to push unscripted storytelling further than before.”

Thomas added, “Pantheon has become one of the most dynamic content studios in the business, where you can move quickly, think big and make things happen. It’s rare to find a place that pairs entrepreneurial spirit with meaningful impact. Coming on board is the perfect next step.”