WildBrain Hires VP of Development-Animation

WildBrain has appointed Lorna Withrington to the newly created role of VP of development-animation.

Withrington brings to the role wide-ranging experience on international co-productions and in the creation of 2D, 3D and hybrid series, with a career spanning such properties as PAW Patrol, PJ Masks, Peppa Pig, Bob the Builder, Fireman Sam and Thomas & Friends. She joins from Spin Master, where she held the position of director of development, and has also held roles at Entertainment One and HIT Entertainment/Mattel.

At WildBrain, Withrington will help drive the strategic vision behind the company’s slate of original animation, working closely with creators, writers, artists and other production stakeholders. Additionally, Withrington is tasked with expanding existing WildBrain properties and activating the expertise of divisions across the company to create successful franchises.

Withrington is based in Toronto and reports to Stephanie Betts, WildBrain’s executive VP of content and current series.

Betts said: “As we continue investing in creativity and talent to drive our expanding slate of premium animation, it’s fantastic to welcome an executive with Lorna’s qualifications to our growing content-development team. Lorna brings an impressive history in proven franchise brands and a strategic vision that will ensure our slate remains innovative and relevant to today’s audience.”

Withrington added: “WildBrain is already home to an impressive and varied portfolio of content and brands, which are loved by kids and families all around the world. I’m very much looking forward to collaborating closely with Stephanie and the team as we build upon this success and discover the next generation of children’s hits.”