Genius Brands hires distribution lead

US kids producer and distributor Genius Brands International (GBI) has appointed a former Entertainment One (eOne) and DHX Media executive to lead its distribution efforts.

Caroline Tyre

Caroline Tyre is joining the LA-based firm as senior VP of international distribution and head of the Genius Brands Network.

Tyre will be responsible for all aspects of global distribution of GBI’s catalogue, which includes the recently announced Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten and flagship series Rainbow Rangers and Llama Llama.

The Genius Brands Network element of the role will see Tyre work on ongoing digital growth for Kid Genius Cartoon Channel and Baby Genius TV.

The 20-year industry veteran was most recently VP of sales and acquisitions for AuxMode, a multi-channel network with 2000-plus channels operating worldwide.

Her work with networks and studios has included positions in sales and acquisitions at companies including Spin Master, eOne, DHX Media, the CBC and Teletoon, where she spent six years as the director of programming.

The announcement was made by GBI Chairman and CEO Andy Heyward, to whom Tyre will report.

Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, will be on offer for the first time at this October’s MipJunior market. CGI-animated preschool series Rainbow Rangers is currently airing season one on US cablenet Nick Jr with season two in production.

Netflix Original preschool series Llama Llama, starring Jennifer Garner, is in production for season two.