Sesame Workshop hires for distribution

Sesame Workshop has appointed a former exec at National Geographic Partners as its VP of international media distribution and business development.

Whit Higgins will be responsible for the development and execution of international content distribution strategy for all Sesame Workshop properties, including the iconic Sesame Street series.

Higgins will also focus on commercial growth and corporate partnerships across consumer products, sponsorship, live events, themed entertainment and education.

Most recently, Higgins served as senior VP, strategic planning and business development for National Geographic Partners.

He was responsible for the expansion of new business opportunities across all platforms, including the launch of the National Geographic Kids linear channel and digital app in Latin America and the Middle East.

Prior to that, Higgins held multiple positions for Fox International Channels Europe, where he served as the general manager of Fox Finland and VP, channel development, Europe.

Sesame Workshop is the non-profit media and educational organization behind Sesame Street, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

“Whit has extensive experience developing and launching new IP-related businesses and product offerings internationally,” said Ed Wells, senior VP and head of international media and education, Sesame Workshop.

“We are producing a larger slate of content than ever before, featuring Sesame Street Muppets as well as all new properties and characters. Whit’s expertise will enable us to optimise distribution of this content across all platforms, being everywhere kids are.”