Blink opens in US, adds Discovery exec

UK factual producer Blink Films is launching a US office and has tapped a Discovery Communications exec to run it.

Brad Kohlenstein

Brad Kohlenstein becomes senior VP of development at Blink’s east coast operation, joining from Discovery where he was VP of development for Science Channel.

Kohlenstein will oversee Blink’s US presence and partnerships, working closely with the prodco’s executive team of co-founders Dan Chambers, Justine Kershaw and Sarah Sapper in London.

He will also be responsible for developing and producing shows for US networks, while also looking for coproduction opportunities for content that will work globally.

Chambers and Kershaw said Kohlenstein’s “track record in producing globally renowned factual programming” would help the firm “rapidly build the company’s roster of productions for both a domestic and international audience.”

Kohlenstein added: “My experience at Science Channel combined with Blink’s pedigree will underpin the production slate as the company enters its next phase of evolution.”

At Science Channel, Kohlenstein oversaw all programme development including scripted, reality, formats and documentary. Prior to that he was director of development at Discovery’s TLC, and before that produced shows for VH1, Food Network, Travel Channel, HGTV and Nickelodeon.

Earlier this year Blink became the first company to receive backing from UK investment outfit Tin Roof Media.