MD Romain Bessi to take over as Newen Studios CEO as Bibiane Godfroid steps down

Romain Bessi is replacing Bibiane Godfroid as CEO of French group TF1’s production and distribution outfit, Newen Studios.

Romain Bessi

Godfroid is leaving the firm to “free up more time for developing new personal projects,” with current MD Bessi taking up the new role on January 31.

Bessi’s appointment comes as Newen continues to expand across Europe, with recent acquisitions including Berlin-based prodco Flare Film and Spanish production house Kubik Film.

As CEO, Bessi’s main focus will be on further enhancing Newen’s growth, both in France and internationally, continuing to attract and retain the best talent and strengthening synergies between Newen group entities.

Bessi joined the group as MD in 2018 before taking on an extra role heading TF1 Studio in 2019. Since the start of 2021, he has also supervised all Newen Studios operations.

Prior to his career at Newen, Bessi was chief operating officer at StudioCanal for nine year and worked in finance roles at Canal+.

Gilles Pélisson, chairman and CEO of TF1 Group, said: “Bibiane’s vision and talent have enabled Newen Studios become an established player in the audiovisual industry in France and now internationally too. I wish Romain Bessi every success in his new role, convinced that his background, experience and professionalism uniquely qualify him to continue driving Newen Studios forward and strengthen ties with broadcasters and platforms in France and abroad.”