Big Bad Boo hires War Child exec

North American prodco Big Bad Boo Studios has expanded its international development team with the appointment of Nikki Whaites as its VP in Toronto.

Nikki Whaites

Whaites joins Big Bad Boo with 20 years of experience managing international development for leading non-governmental organisations, most recently with War Child Canada as the head of international development.

Her arrival comes after Big Bad Boo implemented entertainment-based educational initiatives with children’s charity Unicef and the ministries of education in 15 countries.

Based in New York and Vancouver, Big Bad Boo produces shows such as 16 Hudson, 1001 Nights and The Bravest Knight, and also operates VoD platform Oznoz.

“I’m thrilled to be joining a company that is focused not only on diversity and inclusion in the media, but also on making an impact in the lives of children,” said Whaites.

Whaites added: “Whether in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria or the Philippines, Big Bad Boo’s approach to reducing vulnerability amongst the world’s most at-risk children has been groundbreaking.”

Aly Jetha, CEO and co-founder at Big Bad Boo, said: “She brings a wealth of experience to increase our engagements with Save the Children and Unicef.”