Gaumont Taps New Animation TV Sales Head

Gaumont has hired Laura Laas, a former France TV Distribution exec, as its new VP of international television sales for animation.

Laas is charged with selling Gaumont’s animated TV programming in EMEA and North America, as well as nurturing partnerships for global co-productions. She will collaborate with the animation team led by Nicolas Atlan, president of animation. She will work out of Paris under Vanessa Shapiro, the president of worldwide TV distribution and co-production.

Most recently, Laas served as international sales manager at France TV Distribution. Earlier in her career, she was employed by such companies as Toei Animation Europe and Warner Bros. Entertainment.

Gaumont is gearing up to launch a trio of animated shows this year: Belle & Sebastian, Furry Wheels and Trulli Tales.

“We have seen significant growth in our animation business over the past year, with three new kids’ series close to completion and three recently announced projects in development, with several more to be unveiled in the coming months,” said Shapiro. “Laura’s extensive industry background and expertise will be of paramount importance as we roll out these completed series and finalize co-production partnerships for our new development slate.”