Electus Sets Up Distribution Division

NEW YORK: Ben Silverman’s Electus has hired John Pollak, a former Shine International exec, to serve as president of its newly formed distribution arm, while Chris Philip expands his remit with oversight for a new global scripted production initiative.

As the president of Electus International, Pollak oversees the international strategy and is tasked with growing the slate of programming. Formerly the executive VP of Shine International, Pollak is responsible for the distribution of Electus’ programming as well as third-party titles. He will continue on the expansion efforts initiated by the partnership between Electus and Phillip’s Engine Entertainment.

Philip has been a key driver in launching Electus’ distribution efforts. He will continue as the president of Engine and will also lead a new global scripted production initiative focused on building out the company’s slate of scripted programming.

“The Electus global business model relies heavily on the best in both international distribution and acquisitions. We are aggressively seeking out companies to invest in, both in the U.S. and the U.K., and one of our most important selling points is that we are not beholden to any sister companies in our distribution efforts,” said Chris Grant, the CEO of Electus. “Similar to the early days at Reveille, we are implementing a strategy to deliver the greatest possible revenue to our creative partners. We will not force our content through any one specific partner around the globe. For that reason, it is essential that we have the best sales team and the best leader for that team. I am thrilled that John Pollak is joining us as President of Electus International. John is, without a doubt, the right person for this job.”

“Chris Philip has done an outstanding job building Electus’ initial distribution efforts. His skill in scripted formats has been critical to our early success,” continued Grant. “With more than 20 years of expertise in scripted programming formats, we are thrilled to take our partnership with Chris to the next level and for him to work alongside John to further develop Electus’ international scripted slate.”

Pollak worked with Silverman and Grant at Reveille to launch Reveille International, which is now Shine International.

“I am proud to have the chance to once again join Ben and Chris, and to work closely with Drew Buckley at this incredibly entrepreneurial and talented company,” added Pollak. “Electus International will be run with the same energy and passion that has guided each of us for the better part of the past decade and will be the driving force behind our daily efforts. And with no other agenda than to maximize revenue for Electus’ companies and those of our third party partners, we will be able to independently operate in an ever-changing marketplace by distributing to all traditional and new media platforms.”