BBC Studios Bolsters L.A.-Based Production Business

Former Netflix exec Rob Smith has joined BBC Studios’ Los Angeles production team as general manager, alongside a pair of promotions within the U.S. group.

Smith, a former Netflix executive and head of unscripted television at Endemol Shine, will be responsible for overseeing all creative and business aspects of the division, in addition to leading the team in developing new BBC Studios production activities. He will also collaborate with the U.K. production team, and BBC Studios’ invested U.K. independent producers, on a format strategy for the U.S. market.

Valerie Bruce has been promoted to executive VP, commercial director, and Debby Reid Vigna to executive VP of production.

Smith will report into his predecessor, Matt Forde, who recently relocated to London to assume the role of managing director of international production and formats. Smith’s executive team will include Bruce and Vigna as well as creative heads Ryan O’Dowd, senior VP of entertainment development, and Travis Shakespeare, senior VP of unscripted programming.

Forde commented, “Rob’s extensive experience in overseeing production and commercial exploitation across multiple formats perfectly aligns with our ambitions, and I know the Los Angeles team and business will thrive under his leadership.”

Forde continued, “Both individually and collaboratively, Valerie and Debby have brought expertise, creative strength, and finesse to their roles throughout their years at BBC Studios. It has been my fortune to have these talented executives on my team and I’m certain their invaluable contributions will continue to play an integral part in the growth and success of our production business.”

Smith added, “I am excited to join such a prestigious company and look forward to following the BBC’s proud legacy of creating quality entertainment. The promotions of Debby and Valerie, and the continued great work of Ryan, Travis and the stellar team in L.A. sets us up for true success. I’m looking forward to working with them, as well as the incredible BBC Studios team in the U.K. and around the world, to support the global business.”