Newen Connect, the distribution arm of the TF1 group, announced that Jérôme Alby has joined the Newen Connect team as SVP Distribution Animation, Kids & Family. The exec is responsible for leading the commercial strategy of the Kids & Family business. In particular, he is tasked with securing international financing (co-productions, pre-sales, etc.) for the group's productions such as "Mille Bornes Challenge", "The Borrowers", and "Alice & Lewis" Season 3, in close collaboration with Newen Connect and Blue Spirit Productions.
He will also focus on maximizing the monetization of the Newen Kids & Family catalogue and developing it in a complementary way through external mandates. Additionally, Jérôme will work to cultivate brand management within the Kids & Family sector. The exec will report to Leona Connell, EVP Sales of Newen Connect. He will also collaborate with Sylvie Mahé, Managing Director and Producer of Blue Spirit Productions, and her teams. Eléanor Coleman will redirect her efforts towards the development of Blue Spirit Studios. Jérôme will be attending the upcoming Cartoon Forum and Mip Junior.
Leona Connell welcomed the exec: “I would like to welcome Jérôme to Newen. His recognized expertise in the Kids & Family market, along with his extensive experience in international financing, content acquisition, co-production, distribution, and digital, are essential skills for the development of Newen Connect in the Kids & Family sector," commented.
Meanwhile, Sylvie Mahé spoke about the strong background of the new addition: “I wish Jérôme every success in his new role. His impressive track record within a major publishing and audiovisual group, as well as his experience in the animation sector, are the best assets to meet the challenges ahead and support the long-term international development of Blue Spirit Productions," added.
Finally, Jérôme Alby referred to the new challenge ahead: “I would like to thank Leona for her warm welcome and confidence. I’m delighted to be joining Newen and look forward to working with the Newen Connect and Blue Spirit teams to seize new opportunities and create new growth prospects for the group in the Kids & Family sector," stated.