Production company Rare TV hires Daniela Neumann as CEO

Rare TV has appointed Daniela Neumann as its new CEO, taking over from Alexander Gardiner as head of the independent producer specialising in documentary, factual and formats. She will drive the company's growth into new markets and genres

Neumann joins Rare TV from Spun Gold TV where, over her ten year tenure as managing director, she tripled the independent producer’s turnover and expanded into all genres both locally and internationally making shows for all the UK broadcasters as well as Fox, NBC, Netflix, Discovery + and Paramount.

Neumann brings extensive experience in all aspects of production and delivery to Rare TV. In the course of her 30-year career, she has worked in both the UK and the US, running channels and commissioning teams for ITV, Virgin and Viasat Broadcasting, and producing and directing in multiple genres. As Controller Entertainment she was across shows like Piers Morgan’s "Life Stories", "Dancing on Ice" and "I’m a Celebrity". She was also commissioning editor for ITV1 Factual.

As Director of Programmes for Virgin, Neumann ran Virgin 1, Bravo, Bravo 2 and Challenge. She started her career as a journalist, before moving into production.

Neumann said: “Rare TV has proved itself to be just as described. In a period that has been incredibly challenging for so many, not only have Alex and his team achieved the rare feat of standing their ground, but the company has actually moved forward. The company is on the precipice of many great things and I feel privileged to take over. For me, this is a dream scenario, in which my leadership experience, global network of relationships and ideas can actively contribute to an already remarkable company.”

Neumann’s appointment follows the announcement in December that Alexander Gardiner would be stepping down as CEO to prioritise his health and family commitments. The award-winning executive producer remains connected to Rare TV as non-executive chair, taking over the role from current chair Graham Coxell, who retains a seat on the board.

Gardiner said: "It feels great to be passing the baton to someone as wonderful as Daniela. She will be a terrific addition to Rare as we continue to turbocharge growth into new markets, genres and platforms. She not only has a fantastic track record in making widely watched content, but she’s also an original thinker with a knack for bringing out the best out in her teams. With Daniela at the helm, I can’t wait to see what the future will bring.”