Global Screen finds sales chief

German distributor Global Screen has picked up a former Echo Bridge Entertainment executive to lead its international sales division.

Sonia Mehandjiyska, who was previously VP international sales at US-based Echo Bridge, will take over responsibility for world theatrical and television sales at Global Screen.

Mehandjiyska will report to join CEOs Dr Rolf Moser, who is charge of commercial matters, and Dr Thomas Weymar, who is responsible for programme distribution.

Dr Weymar said: “With Mrs Mehandjiyska, we have secured a skilled and experienced hand for this crucial position. She has been at home in theatrical and TV distribution for years, speaks six languages and will decisively bolster our market position with her international background and leadership abilities.”

Global Screen launched earlier this month following the merger of the international arms of German distributors Bavaria Media and Telepool.

Mehandjiyska has previously worked in international sales at Los Angeles-based Gibraltar International in 2003 before becoming director of international sales at MRG (Lightning Entertainment, Mainline Releasing). In 2009, she joined the London office of Echo Bridge Entertainment as VP international sales.

Global Screen’s catalogue includes content from Bavaria Media-owned Bavaria Film, German pubcasters WDR and SWR, Degeto Film and RTL. The company also intends to pick up third party acquisitions.

Irina Ignatiew, Telepool’s executive VP of international sales, left the company in October last year.