Endemol Brazil adds Fox exec as GM

Endemol has hired the former content director for Fox International Channels (FIC) Brazil to lead its operations in the South American territory.

Marcello Leão Braga has been named GM of Endemol Brazil reporting to the production giant’s creative director and operations director for Latin America Martin Kweller.

He replaces Juliana Algañaraz, who stepped down from the role in August, and  takes up his new role immediately.

Braga, who is based in Sao Paulo, is tasked with expanding Endemol’s business in Brazil, where it launched its production outfit in 2009 to run alongside Endemol Globo, its 50/50 joint venture with Brazilian broadcaster TV Globo.

While at FIC, Leão Braga was responsible for commissioning and the development, production and promotion of local content as well as pursuing production partnerships.

During his 19-year career he has held numerous senior roles in the Brazilian market, including high ranking marketing positions at companies such as Fox, Hyundai and Mars.

Since its launch five years ago, Endemol Brazil has sold local versions of hit formats Your Face Sounds Familiar, Extreme Makeover, The Money Drop, Conveyor Belt of Love, Question of Weight and The Last Passenger.

Rio-based joint venture Endemol Globo continues to operate as a separate business, delivering hit shows for Globo that are based on Endemol formats such as Big Brother, Next One and Step Right Up.